I couldn’t be happier to announce that our very own Tara Balcerzak, Administrative Assistant of the Richmond Symphony, will be honored as one of Wayne County’s Top 20 Outstanding Young Professionals on Friday, April 29! It was a joy to write a nomination for her; as soon as I heard about the award, I knew Tara was a wonderful candidate. And despite my best efforts, I found it difficult quantify the true impact that she has made through her efficient work ethic and passion for the success of the RSO. And I found it difficult to find the words to inform the committee how important she has been to me as a first-time Executive Director. I will share a few excerpts from her nomination.
Tara is passionate about the RSO’s place in this community. She has brought friends to the concerts, some that are now season ticket holders. She staffs booths at festivals and promotes the RSO any chance she gets. Tara brings a new perspective about what it takes to engage college-age students and young professionals. Something else that Tara has been particularly passionate about is our Kids of Note Club. Charged by the educational committee to come up with activities for children at our concerts, Tara has worked closely with our IU East intern to ensure fun and interactive activities are available before and during the concerts. As a result, children’s attendance has exploded!
Quantifying the difference in marketing that Tara has made to the RSO is impossible. She has been instrumental in preparing the content for the new website and worked closely with the designers to ensure she knows how to manage all aspects. Tara prepares newsletter before each concert, and our subscribers have expressed their appreciation for its informativeness and quality. She prepares our inserts for each concert and is always thinking of ways to make it more attractive. Tara designs ads, billboards, letterhead – all of which would cost the RSO significantly. The RSO’s social media has been explosive. I could go on and on, but let me quantify her efforts by saying our audience and season ticket holders have increased by 17% in two years!
I’m so pleased to live in a community that recognizes and honors difference-makers! Congratulations to all the nominees, but especially Tara. You are valued. Because of your professionalism and unique perspective, the RSO is progressing from simply pushing-out-a-message in an attempt to make noise to pushing-out-a-message in an attempt to pull people to the RSO!