The New York Youth Symphony’s Board of Trustees comprises dedicated civic, philanthropic, and cultural leaders who steward the organization’s mission through strategic oversight, financial leadership, and advocacy. United by a belief in the transformative power of music, Trustees provide governance and fiduciary responsibility while partnering closely with leadership to shape NYYS’s future and expand opportunities for the region's finest young musicians through robust philanthropic engagement.
Co-Chair
Robert L. Poster
Co-Chair
Melissa Eisenstat
President
Ian Carleton Schaefer
Senior Vice President
Robert J. Levine
Treasurer
Michael Crouch
Secretary
Ruth E. Pachman
| Members Bettina Buss Benson Chapman Steven Chapman Louis Culot Michael R. DiYanni Liam Fenlon Elliott Forrest Andrew Herndon William Kapell Sung Yoon Kim* Michael A. Marquez |
Peter Park *Executive Committee |
The Associates Council serves as the primary pipeline for engaged supporters and prospective trustees interested in deepening their involvement with NYYS but not yet positioned for full Board service. This may include individuals (particularly alumni) who are building their philanthropic engagement, becoming more familiar with the organization, or exploring how best to contribute their time, expertise, and resources.
Participation may include an annual philanthropic contribution at a defined level and support for a specific program or event, with an emphasis on maintaining an inclusive structure that encourages broad engagement while identifying future leadership.
The Artistic Advisory Council engages distinguished artists, alumni, and friends of the organization who serve as connectors, public advocates, and strategic partners. Members may include individuals with strong ties to specific programs or to the broader field, both within and beyond New York.
The Council is designed for individuals who are deeply supportive of NYYS and eager to contribute their influence and insight.
This designation recognizes former trustees, key supporters, and past senior leaders whose exceptional and sustained contributions to the New York Youth Symphony have had a meaningful and lasting impact on the organization. Conferred upon individuals who have demonstrated distinguished service and leadership, Trustee Emeritus / Emerita status provides an ongoing affiliation with NYYS in recognition of their distinguished legacy.
Emeritus Trustees
Rhea Cohen
Barbara Field
Barry Goldberg, Executive Director Emeritus
Susan S. Rai
In Memoriam
A. Slade Mills, Jr.
Leslie Garfield
Jo Garfield
Marica Vilcek