Newark Symphony Hall (NSH) announced the creation of a Black-led, volunteer-based Investment Committee to steward the venue. The committee will shape policy, provide financial guidance, and help to achieve fundraising milestones, including the first phase of a $40 million renovation slated to begin in 2021.
Established in 1925, NSH is one of the oldest and largest arts and entertainment venues in New Jersey and the Investment Committee, comprised largely of Millenial professionals, will assist the institution as it focuses on the creation of opportunities for local performing artists and creators of color. Committee members are Black executives from notable companies, including Goldman Sachs, Facebook, and AllianceBernstein, among others.
“Our committee members epitomize the concept of ‘Black Excellence,’ and will signal an important step toward ensuring the longevity and sustainability of our organization in New Jersey’s largest city,” said NSH President and CEO, Taneshia Nash Laird.
The Investment Committee is comprised of seven volunteer members who will not only offer financial guidance but also support various NSH social and racial justice initiatives. The members are: Ka’Neda Bullock, president, Master Plan Investment Group; Kevin Clark, senior director of investment banking, Navatar; Chidi Erike, client partner, Facebook; Jerald Gooden, investment associate, AllianceBernstein; Darren Harris, senior vice president, Goldman Sachs; Kwame Marfo, board chair, Accompany Capital; Crystal J. Mullins, vice president public finance, FHN Financial.
“The people of the Greater Newark region are from the African diaspora, of Portuguese descent, Hispanic/Latinx, and Asian and Pacific Islanders,” Taneshia Nash Laird added. “Our new programming will give these groups a place to see their culture celebrated.”
NSH is owned by the City of Newark and operated by the nonprofit Newark Performing Arts Corporation. Additional community-based initiatives include the New Jersey Youth Poet Laureate, “The Lab,” an Artist-in-Residence program, and the Greater Newark Performing Artist Registry.
