Get to know our New Executive Director, Liz Collier
What are you most excited about as you begin your new role with FRIENDS of the MN Orchestra?
I am excited to make a substantial contribution to the health of FRIENDS as an organization. I have already started connecting staff members, committees and program chairs with the goal of smoother communication, less duplication of efforts, and alignment of goals. While we are getting the inner workings of FRIENDS up and running for the season, I look forward to working on the big picture: our relationship with the Minnesota Orchestra, new funding streams for our education programs, and more.
What do you hope members will experience and feel as part of FRIENDS this year?
I hope members will observe our music education programs continue in their excellence, while I explore with the Board how FRIENDS can expand these programs in the near future. I hope that members will have fun with each other at our Member Events, FRIENDS Connect, ACCENT programs, and more. Lastly, I hope our members will feel so energized about FRIENDS' mission that they invite their friends and neighbors to donate and join us!
What is one thing you’ve learned about FRIENDS community that has inspired you so far?
I've learned that every Board member and volunteer at FRIENDS has a heart of gold! Everyone is passionate about bringing music education to young children and supporting the Minnesota Orchestra. It's quite inspiring to see everyone's enthusiasm and can-do attitude around this shared mission.
If you could be a musical instrument, which instrument would you be and why?
If I could be any orchestral instrument, it would be the double bass. The lowest instruments support the whole orchestra with their bass lines, and the rest of the orchestra is wise to tune their instruments to them. I love supporting organizations with my creativity, support and care. I also like to take up space instead of shrinking in the corner!
Looking ahead, what opportunities do you see for FRIENDS to grow and connect with more people in our community?
I think our Board Directors are fabulous people with a diversity of life experiences, connections to more people and opportunities, and great ideas. Beyond the Board, we have a passionate community of Past Presidents and Board members, program chairs, and other volunteers. I am optimistic that with a little brainstorming and leg work, we can leverage these connections and bring new ideas to life.
If you could share one message with our members as you begin this new chapter, what would it be?
THANK YOU for your warm and enthusiastic welcome! Everyone I have met has been excited to meet me and looks forward to working with me. I want to share how much I appreciate your support, encouragement, and trust in me to lead this wonderful organization!