The Association of California Symphony Orchestras (ACSO) is honored to announce the 2025 recipients of the Executive Leadership Award, Emerging Professional Award, Young Musician Leadership Award, and Most Valuable Player (MVP) Volunteer Award.

Awards will be presented at ACSO’s Annual Conference, August 7–9, in Costa Mesa. Congratulations to all the worthy nominees and recipients!

Executive Leadership Award

• Anne Brown, Executive Director, Auburn Symphony
• Kelly Ruggirello, President & CEO, Long Beach Symphony

Emerging Professional Award

• Jahan Atebar, Executive Assistant & Office Manager, Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera

Young Musician Leadership Award

• Christopher Sterling, Bassist, Southern California Philharmonic

MVP Volunteer Award

• Todd Aldrich, Board Member, Santa Barbara Symphony
• Dr. Bernard Karian, Board Member, Fresno Philharmonic
• Donna Marie Minano, Board President, San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra
• Patricia Petric, Member & Volunteer, Pacific Symphony League
• Stefan Podell, Board President, San Luis Obispo Symphony
• Kimberly S. Winick, Board President, Pasadena Symphony Association
• Women’s Committee of the Pasadena Symphony Association

“As an arts service organization, ACSO is in the unique position to bear witness to the impactful work of hundreds of incredible people and organizations throughout the performing arts. Through our awards program, we can publicly honor and recognize those whose extraordinary vision, keen leadership, determination and grit, and unshakeable connection to their communities have been particularly impactful,” said Sarah Weber, ACSO Executive Director. “We are inspired by the awardees and the innovation, fearlessness, and deep sense of service they bring to their work."

Thank you to the ACSO Awards Review Committee for their careful, sensitive, and thoughtful consideration of all nominees: Alessandra Aquilante, Connor Bogenrief, Kathryn Martin, Dean McVay, Jonathan Rios, May Stearman, Sarah Weber

Keep reading to learn more about the 2025 Award Recipients and their accomplishments.

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP AWARD

The Executive Leadership Award recognizes the chief executive officer, executive director, or managing director of an ACSO member organization for extraordinary leadership in the classical music field by advancing the mission of his/her organization, creating a vision that inspires others, creating strategies to overcome challenges, and uniting a team to meet the demands of the changing world of classical music performance.

Anne Brown, Executive Director, Auburn Symphony

Anne Brown’s leadership of the Auburn Symphony has been defined by vision, heart, and a deep commitment to community. Under her guidance, the Symphony has expanded its reach, diversified its programming, and strengthened ties with local partners through inclusive, empowering leadership. She actively fosters collaboration—partnering with arts groups, integrating music education in schools, and creating performances that reflect local culture and talent.

“Anne Brown leads with both vision and heart,” said Jenny Darlington-Person, Executive Director of the Arts Council of Placer County. “Her leadership has profoundly shaped the Auburn Symphony and its role as a vital cultural partner within Auburn and Placer County. Anne doesn’t just lead from the front—she leads from within, championing the power of music to bring people together.” Brown’s ability to unite musicians, educators, donors, and civic leaders through trust and shared purpose has made music more accessible and meaningful throughout the region.

Kelly Ruggirello, President & CEO, Long Beach Symphony

Kelly Ruggirello has demonstrated 12 years of transformative leadership at the Long Beach Symphony, driving artistic excellence, community engagement, and organizational sustainability. Nominated by Issy Roberts, Vice President of Operations & Education, Ruggirello is praised for her clear and compelling vision to make the Symphony an essential cultural force that inspires, educates, and unites the community through music.

“She doesn’t just articulate that vision—she brings it to life in everything the Symphony does,” Roberts said. “Her leadership is inclusive and strategic, her communication transparent, and her passion contagious.” Under Kelly’s guidance, the Symphony has deepened its community impact through education programs, partnerships, and compelling performances. Her authentic and respectful leadership style has rallied staff, musicians, donors, and board members around a shared mission, making the Symphony a dynamic, resilient, and mission-driven organization.

EMERGING PROFESSIONAL AWARD

The Emerging Professional Award recognizes the current contributions and the future potential of an individual who has been in the orchestra/classical music field for five years or less but who has already made significant contributions to their organization, irrespective of available resources or budget, and has demonstrated the potential for leadership and continuing professional growth. This individual has experienced early career success in the field, has helped elevate the mission of their organization, and thus is actively making an impact in the community. The award comes with a $500 honoraria, underwritten by ACSO Board Emeritus Member Dean McVay.

Jahan Atebar, Executive Assistant & Office Manager, Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera

“Jahan is a linchpin in our success,” said Giuliano Kornberg, CEO of Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera, who praised her wide-ranging impact across the organization in areas including fundraising, marketing, operations, and team collaboration. “She contributes far beyond her title — managing social media and digital marketing, producing program books, supporting fundraising campaigns, and providing critical organizational infrastructure. Her initiative, creativity, and execution have helped us break records in both fundraising and ticket sales this year.”

Her efforts have not only elevated SP&O’s public presence and financial performance but also increased staff cohesion and board effectiveness. Kornberg added, “Jahan truly is everything, everywhere, all at once. Her work enables our leadership team to operate at a higher level, and her excellence has earned admiration from colleagues, board members, and external partners alike.”

YOUNG MUSICIAN LEADERSHIP AWARD

ACSO’s Young Musician Leadership Award goes to a middle school, high school, or college student who plays an instrument in a music ensemble and shows remarkable potential to become a future leader in the performing arts field. This award recognizes a young musician who has gone above and beyond in service to their orchestra, school, peer group, or community. This award comes with a mentorship opportunity and a $250 honorarium, underwritten by ACSO Board Emeritus Member Dean McVay.

Christopher Sterling, Bassist, Southern California Philharmonic

Sterling was nominated by Melissa Marius, Vice President and Internship Supervisor at the Southern California Philharmonic, who praised his rare combination of musicianship, leadership, and social impact and said “Christopher Sterling exemplifies what this award is all about."

While pursuing dual undergraduate degrees in music education and bass performance at CSULB’s Bob Cole Conservatory, Sterling serves as Principal Bassist of the Philharmonic, mentors students at four different middle and high schools, and plays an active role in shaping youth music programs across the region.

Sterling’s leadership began in high school, where he founded and directed a jazz ensemble at just 15. Today, he continues that spirit of service by helping launch a new jazz band at Helen Keller Middle School and returning to mentor students at his alma mater, Garden Grove High. Most recently, he founded “Summer Reading Orchestra at The Beach,” a free program providing inclusive, high-level ensemble experiences to local musicians. As he enters his Master’s program in conducting this fall, Sterling remains deeply committed to expanding access to music education and empowering the next generation of artists.

MOST VALUABLE PLAYER (MVP) VOLUNTEER AWARD

ACSO launched the MVP Volunteer Award in 1996 to recognize exemplary volunteers, volunteer projects, and volunteer organizations and to thank a few of the hundreds of dedicated, hardworking, and committed volunteers that orchestras and music organizations depend on every day.

Todd Aldrich, Board Member, Santa Barbara Symphony

Since joining the Santa Barbara Symphony’s Board in 2021, Todd Aldrich has brought strategic leadership and tireless energy as Chair of the Governance Committee and trustee of the Endowment Trust. He is guiding the board chair succession plan, leading a major fundraising campaign, and, with his wife, co-founded the Crescendo donor group and helped launch the Santa Barbara Symphony Chorus in 2024. 

“Todd devotes his time, talent, and treasure with great enthusiasm,” said Kim Kebler, Executive Assistant, and Natasha Miller-Zahn, Vice President of Finance at the Santa Barbara Symphony. “He inspires others through his leadership and unwavering support of our mission.”

Dr. Bernard Karian, Board Member, Fresno Philharmonic

Dr. Bernie Karian has served the Fresno Philharmonic since 1987, including two terms as Board President and chairing the committee that appointed Music Director Rei Hotoda. Alongside his wife Marion, he hosts donor events and supports the orchestra with warmth and generosity. A respected figure in Fresno’s Armenian community, Dr. Karian has also made life-changing medical mission trips to Armenia, served on the Fresno Art Museum board, and championed regional cultural organizations. Widely admired as a model board member, he inspires others through his passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment. 

“From lead gifts to mentoring board members, Bernie’s generosity and passion for classical music set the standard,” said Ellen Armour, Development and Marketing Director.

Donna Marie Minano, Board President, San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra

As Board President of the San Bernardino Symphony for the past three years, Donna Marie Minano has brought transformative leadership grounded in optimism, collaboration, and care. A seasoned arts advocate and co-founder of Inland Valley Repertory Theater, she fosters strategic growth and board development with creativity and grace. 

“Donna is the board leader every orchestra hopes for,” said Anne Viricel, Executive Director of the SBSO. “She has successfully recruited new board members, re-engaged past ones, and fosters a culture of forward-thinking leadership rooted in optimism and inclusion. We truly appreciate her!”

Patricia Petric, Member & Volunteer, Pacific Symphony League

For over eight years, Patricia Petric has volunteered with passion, professionalism, and warmth at the Pacific Symphony. She supports front-of-house operations, community programs, and the Class Act education initiative, while also providing vital behind-the-scenes help at League events and Symphony Shop activities. 

“Pat brings enthusiasm and a warm presence to everything she does,” said Abby Edmunds, Senior Director of Volunteer Services. "Her commitment strengthens the Symphony’s connection with patrons, students, and staff alike."

Stefan Podell, Board President, San Luis Obispo Symphony

As Board President, Stefan Podell has led the San Luis Obispo Symphony with vision, creativity, and energy. He revived a fundraising golf tournament, reimagined the annual gala, and strengthened board engagement through strategic planning. A professional composer, he donated original orchestral works that raised over $46,000, secured a $20,000 matching gift, and provided major in-kind contributions such as a website redesign and marketing support. 

“Stefan is more than a volunteer—he is the heart of our community,” said Emily Reneau, Director of Development. “He combines artistic vision with strategic thinking, humility with leadership, and passion with generosity."

Kimberly S. Winick, Board President, Pasadena Symphony Association

During a time of major leadership transition in 2023, Kimberly S. Winick brought calm, clarity, and stability to the Pasadena Symphony Association. Her empathetic leadership restored morale, strengthened board engagement, and renewed a shared sense of purpose. Kimberly’s steady hand and clear-headed decision-making empowered the team to rebuild momentum and face challenges with confidence. A dedicated ambassador for the symphony and a skilled lawyer, she supports board development, builds community partnerships, and ensures organizational resilience. 

“She leads with care, wisdom, and generosity,” said Alex Chu, Director of Education & Community Engagement. “Kimberly’s presence lifts the entire organization.”

Women’s Committee of the Pasadena Symphony Association

The Women’s Committee has supported the Pasadena Symphony for nearly seven decades with unwavering dedication and warmth. Their signature event, the Holiday Look In Home Tour, raised over $230,000 in 2024 to support Symphony programs and education. From managing florists to hosting community events, the Committee’s work blends elegance, efficiency, and heart. In addition to fundraising, they host receptions for musicians, serve as ambassadors in the community, and provide countless thoughtful gestures that uplift staff, artists, and volunteers alike. 

“The Women’s Committee is the heart of our community,” shared Pasadena Symphony staff. “They not only raise essential funds but also elevate our visibility, welcome new patrons, and create meaningful connections that support our mission long-term.”