(Philadelphia, August 31, 2021)––The Philadelphia Orchestra Association has elected John Fry, president of Drexel University, to its Board of Directors. Fry joins a group of experienced business, arts, and community leaders on the Board as they support the launch of the Orchestra’s 2021–22 season and a return to in-person concerts.
“We are delighted to welcome John Fry to our Board of Directors and the Orchestra family, particularly during this exciting time as we present a long-awaited new season of live concerts with audiences,” said Orchestra Board Chair Ralph W. Muller. “John is a dynamic, nationally recognized leader who loves the arts and understands its vital role in our community. He will bring unique insight to the Board as we enter a new chapter of innovation and excellence.”
John Fry was appointed Drexel University’s 14th president in 2010. Under his leadership, Drexel has set a national example for the execution of public-private partnerships and become a powerful force for economic development in Greater Philadelphia. Fry has championed major neighborhood revitalization initiatives, including the creation of a multi-faceted university extension center in Mantua, the Dornsife Center for Neighborhood Partnerships; extensive economic development efforts in Schuylkill Yards and uCity Square; and significant partnerships to support local neighborhood schools. He negotiated a groundbreaking affiliation with the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, launched the Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship to foster entrepreneurial learning, and forged a series of academic and research partnerships to enhance Drexel’s global connections in China, Turkey, Israel, Brazil, Chile, India and South Korea. During his tenure, Drexel has seen a significant increase in fundraising and a growing number of philanthropic partners. Prior to Drexel, Fry was president of Franklin & Marshall College, executive vice president of the University of Pennsylvania, and a management consultant for the higher education and nonprofit sectors. He serves on the boards of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, Academy of Natural Sciences, the Kresge Foundation, the Wistar Institute, and Lafayette College. Fry graduated from Lafayette College and earned a master’s degree in business administration from the New York University Stern School of Business.
Philadelphia Orchestra Association Board of Directors
About The Philadelphia Orchestra
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CONTACTS:
Ashley Berke
215.893.1939
aberke@philorch.org
Natalie Lewis
215.893.3136
nlewis@philorch.org