The WSO Board is pleased to announce their selection of Natalie Ann Kasievich as the new executive director.

Ms. Kasievich’s education includes a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Wheeling Jesuit University and a master’s degree in Public Management from the H. John Heinz III College, Carnegie Mellon University. Her most recent position was as an Engagement Leader for Thrivent Financial. She is also the former board president of the Edgewood Symphony and former Executive Director of the Portiuncula Foundation.

Ms. Kasievich is a lifelong musician and has always been drawn to orchestral settings as a violinist.  She has studied the violin since age four and began playing orchestral music at nine with Three River’s Young People’s Orchestra (TRYPO) Symphonette. She continues to play locally as a freelance violinist and with the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra (ESO). Additionally, in her tenure as board president of the Edgewood Symphony she was an integral part in doubling the operating budget and overseeing tremendous growth in artistic quality, audience attendance, and fund development.

“The search committee was impressed with Natalie’s musical knowledge, non-profit leadership experience as well as her love and commitment to promoting classical music,” said Bill Friedlander, President of the WSO Board of Directors and member of the search committee. “After an extensive search, we decided Natalie was the ideal choice to help the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra at this point in our journey of providing high-quality music experiences as well as meaningful outreach and education for our community.”

“It’s a great honor to step into this role with the WSO and help write its next chapter,” said Ms. Kasievich. “I look forward to working with our wonderful musicians, sponsors, and donors to continue the culture of excellence and community collaboration. I also look forward to meeting symphony patrons at our upcoming summer concerts at St. Clair Park and West Overton.”