The South Bend Symphony Orchestra is delighted to announce the appointment of Sarah Perschbacher as Interim Executive Director. Sarah, who has excelled as the Director of Marketing since 2020, will steer the organization through this transitional phase after the announcement of Justus Zimmerman’s departure back in December 2024.
Under Sarah’s visionary leadership, the Symphony has experienced a remarkable 70% increase in attendance, significantly broadening its outreach and community engagement. She spearheaded innovative marketing campaigns and brand partnerships that have positioned the South Bend Symphony Orchestra as a leading cultural institution in the region.
“Sarah was my first hire here in South Bend.” Justus Zimmerman recounts. “She has always been an excellent marketer, but I have loved most of all witnessing her build her team from the ground up. The love and respect she has earned from both her peers and those who report to her is a testament to her ability to manage people and drive results. I have utmost confidence in her ability to continue the great work this organization is doing.”
“Sarah is deeply rooted in South Bend and has been an indispensable part of our community and our team,” said Dr. Marvin V. Curtis, President of the Board of Directors. “Her comprehensive understanding of our mission, coupled with her demonstrated leadership and unwavering dedication, make her the perfect choice to guide us during this interim period.”
Expressing her excitement about the new role, Sarah stated, “I am honored to serve as Interim Executive Director and look forward to continuing the momentum we’ve built. My goal is to sustain our growth and expand our impact within the community, ensuring that the Symphony remains a vibrant and accessible community cornerstone.”
Sarah brings a robust background in the non-profit sector, including extensive experience in higher education. She is a proud alumna of Indiana University South Bend, holding a Master of Liberal Studies, a Bachelor of Arts, and a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Sustainability Leadership. Her LEED Green Associate Certification further demonstrates her commitment to sustainable practices. Additionally, Sarah actively contributes to the national arts community as a member of the League of American Orchestras’ Marketing Constituency Group, where she collaborates with peers to advance marketing strategies for orchestras nationwide.
The South Bend Symphony Orchestra is confident that Sarah’s leadership will ensure a seamless transition and continued progress toward the organization’s goals. The search for a permanent Executive Director is currently underway, with the board dedicated to finding a leader who will uphold and enhance the values and mission of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra.
About the South Bend Symphony Orchestra
The South Bend Symphony inspires, entertains, and connects the community with the transformative power of orchestral music. Producing more than 20 mainstage programs each year and nearly 70 smaller ensemble concerts, the Symphony serves more than 29,000 attendees annually. As the region’s only professional orchestra, the Symphony is committed to fostering a robust, connected arts community in service to the greater Michiana region.
In addition to being recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts and other state and local arts funding organizations, the South Bend Symphony Orchestra is the recipient of the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence, which recognizes the best-run nonprofit organization in St. Joseph County, Indiana.