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October 30, 2023
Windsor, ON – Windsor Symphony Orchestra is delighted to announce the appointment of Patti Lauzon as the new Executive Director, effective November 27, 2023. With a distinguished background in communications and fundraising, Patti brings a wealth of experience to this leadership role.
As Executive Director, Patti will play a pivotal role in the WSO’s continued journey towards connecting, inspiring, engaging, and enriching our community through the power of orchestral music. Patti’s extensive career in media relations, corporate fundraising, and strategic planning will be invaluable in guiding the WSO through the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Patti Lauzon is looking forward to her new role. “The Windsor Symphony Orchestra is a dynamic, important organization in our community, and I am honoured to play a role in the WSO story. I feel privileged to continue the remarkable work done by Sheila Wisdom and to working with Maestro Robert Franz, the talented musicians, expert administrative staff, dedicated Board of Directors and generous donors, patrons, and community partners.”
“I’m thrilled that Patti is joining our organization. She brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise and an infectious excitement about what lies ahead for the WSO,” said Robert Franz.
Deborah Severs, President, Windsor Symphony Society Board of Directors and chair of the Recruit Committee looks forward to Patti’s engagement as Executive Director. “This is very exciting news. We are confident that the expertise and vision of our new Executive Director will contribute to our continued success and growth. The WSO invites the community to welcome Patti in her new leadership role. We look forward to building on the success under Sheila Wisdom’s time as Executive Director as we embark on a new chapter in our orchestra’s history under Patti’s stewardship.”
Sheila Wisdom will continue with the WSO until the Holiday Break in December to assist in a smooth transition.
Since 2013, Patti Lauzon has been the Director, Alumni Affairs and Donor Communications at the University of Windsor. Her areas of expertise include media relations, individual and corporate fundraising, strategic planning, and community outreach. Patti was formerly the Director of Communications and Community Engagement at the local Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and held the position of Manager, Public Relations, and Development with the Teen Health Centre (now the Windsor-Essex Community Health Centre).
Patti began her professional career in public relations and fundraising with the Windsor Symphony Orchestra in 1992 as the organization’s Marketing Intern. With a strong commitment and passion for access to the arts, mental health services and women’s issues, Patti has experience in supporting these causes as a paid professional and volunteer.
She is an alumna of both the University of Windsor (BA) and St. Clair College (Print Journalism) and is completing her Master’s degree in Communications Management (MCM) where her area of research is in leadership skills in a post-pandemic workforce. Patti and her husband, Mark, live in Windsor with their two daughters.
The WSO is an award-winning professional orchestra and local cultural icon connecting the people of Windsor and Essex County through music. Founded in 1947, the WSO supports a thriving Youth Orchestra, Community Orchestra, and volunteer Chorus. Since 2013, the WSO has performed under the direction of Music Director Maestro Robert Franz.
For additional information contact:
Monica Bunde
mbunde@windsorsymphony.com
Manager, Marketing, Communications & Sales
Windsor Symphony Orchestra
