LAFAYETTE - The Lafayette Symphony Orchestra has selected Lafayette native Sara Mummey as its new executive director.

Mummey, who has served as assistant director and operations manager of the Lafayette Symphony Orchestra since February 2011,will take the top administrative post at the LSO, beginning her duties as executive director immediately, LSO Board President Phillip Fiorini announced Wednesday (April 3).

Mummey, a graduate of DePauw University with a degree in music education, was selected following a six-month national search. She succeeds Dr. Ken Bootsma, who served as executive director for five years until last year and then returned to serve as interim director while the search was conducted.

 A passing the baton ceremony involving Mummey, Bootsma and LSO conductor and music director Nick Palmer is planned in conjunction with the upcoming LSO concert, Chaconne Fantastique, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at the Long Center for the Performing Arts.

"As a lifelong Lafayette resident and a longtime participant in the arts, Sara has built a strong reputation within our community, fostering lasting relationships with members of the arts community and other non-profit organizations," Fiorini said. "These relationships will not only aid Sara as she leads the LSO, but will prove to be a strong asset as we seek new ways to grow patrons and supporters from throughout Greater Lafayette."

Since joining the LSO in early 2011, Mummey has been responsible for all elements of its concert production including scheduling, guest artist management and educational outreach. She also has developed, produced and maintained the LSO's marketing efforts including radio, television and newspaper advertising, monthly e-newsletters, social media and website as well as the annual ticket brochure and program.

"My established network in the local community will enhance my ability as the LSO's executive director to work with Maestro Nick Palmer, our impressive orchestra and staff to take us to the next level," Mummey said. "My goal is to build on what Dr. Bootsma has accomplished in working with the musicians and the board, fostering relationships with artists, patrons, corporations and foundations to facilitate mutually beneficial synergies and promote qualitymusical programs."

Before joining the LSO in early 2011, Mummey was an assistant banking center manager for Lafayette Bank & Trust for four years, providing general supervision and scheduling for the banking center. She also was a service associate for Lafayette Bank & Trust from July 2006 to March 2007.

As a volunteer, Mummey is a member of Tippy Connect Young Professionals, serving on its Public Relations and Advertising Committee. She is a graduate of Leadership Lafayette, has been a volunteer of Civic Theater of Greater Lafayette since June 2001, and served as a loaned campaign representative for the United Way of Greater Lafayette's 2009-10 fundraising campaign.

After graduating from DePauw, Mummey spent a year as instructor of dance and assistant director of choirs at Harrison High School. She has been a private vocal instructor since 2003 and participated in the choral and music programs while attending Lafayette Jefferson High School.

"Sara's strong organizational skills combined with her thorough knowledge of the LSO will be a huge asset as we continue to grow," Maestro Palmer said. "Her understanding of creative marketing and our community demographics will also help the LSO to increase our audience in the region."

As executive director, Mummey will serve as the LSO's chief operating officer, executing the annual operating plan as set forth by its board of directors and in conjunction with the LSO mission and strategic plan. In addition, the executive director is responsible for all aspects of the financial, operational and asset management and leadership of the LSO organization as directed by the board.

She also will assist Palmer in developing the annual concert season for orchestra operations, including rehearsal schedules, program themes and ideas, special events, broadcasts, and audience development. In addition, Mummey will be the official spokesperson for the LSO.

"Music has and always will be a central driving force in my life and it is especially important to me that the Lafayette Symphony continues to build strength and grow as an organization," Mummey said. "I look forward to the opportunity to play a role in the development of a creative and organized approach to advancing the LSO's mission and creating a legacy of music and outreach that will forever enhance our community."