Songcatchers Appoints Jennifer Lanser as New Executive Director

The Songcatchers Board of Directors recently named Jennifer Lanser as its Executive Director. Lanser’s previous roles include Director of Development and Communications for the Ursulines of the Eastern Province and Executive Director of the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce. Lanser will manage day-to-day operations, lead fundraising, marketing and community initiatives, and lead the search for finding a new home for the organization.

Interim Director Angela M. Belsole explains: “I am certain that we have found the right person to work collaboratively with the staff and board to continuously improve our programs and services, enhance our facilities and technological capabilities and broaden our community reach.”

Says Lanser: “I am overjoyed to begin serving my hometown again; expanding and enriching the Songcatchers mission and vision.”

What began as a small school choir in 1978 has become an organization that provides accessible music education, training and enrichment for all children and families in New Rochelle and the surrounding area, which Lanser refers to as “the legacy of [Founder] Sr. Beth Dowd, an Ursuline Sister who sought to reach peace in our community through music.”

About ArtsWestchester

Founded in 1965, ArtsWestchester is New York State’s largest private not-for-profit arts council. The leading funder and advocate for the arts in Westchester and Rockland Counties, ArtsWestchester works to create an equitable, inclusive, vibrant and sustainable community in which the arts are integral to and integrated into every facet of life. Building on its 60-year legacy, ArtsWestchester advances arts and culture by providing grants, bringing artists into schools and community centers, advocating for the arts, and building audiences through diverse marketing initiatives. ArtsWestchester enriches the lives of everyone in the community and operates a multi-use gallery and home for the arts at 31 Mamaroneck Ave. in White Plains, New York.