As Carolyn steps into retirement this year, CMC reflects on her incredible contributions, steadfast commitment, and heartfelt connection to the organization and its mission. Her journey with CMC has been one of passion, community building, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of music.
Carolyn’s story is deeply intertwined with the city she calls home. Growing up and still residing on the same block in San Francisco, she has witnessed the ever-evolving community landscape, making her contributions to CMC’s mission all the more significant.
Carolyn fondly recalls one particularly unique and memorable event—a fundraising gathering she hosted at her own home. With guests shoulder-to-shoulder in her kitchen and spilling onto the deck, the event brought together friends, neighbors, and supporters to rally behind CMC’s mission. “We were all in,” she says. This intimate event embodied Carolyn’s approach to fundraising: personal, heartfelt, and deeply connected to the community.
For Carolyn, the most gratifying part of her work has been witnessing the growth and dedication of CMC’s students. “It could bring tears to your eyes,” she reflects, recalling concerts where young musicians showcased their hard work and love for music. “Seeing these little kids putting all their effort into playing together, listening to each other—it’s really special.”
These moments, she says, are a poignant reminder of why CMC’s work matters. “Students may not realize it, but having a platform like CMC, with a beautiful facility and supportive environment, makes all the difference in their ability to thrive. Our efforts over these past years with the capital campaign for the campus expansion and CMC’s centennial celebrations have really served to establish CMC as a pillar arts institution in the city – on par with the Conservatory, Symphony, Opera, and SF Jazz – but on the other side of Market Street, serving the community and those who would otherwise not have access to the high-quality music education and experiences that CMC provides. I am very proud of that. And do think we are building the foundations that will ensure CMC thrives and endures for future generations.” Carolyn played a pivotal role in CMC’s capital campaign, a project born out of sheer necessity. She vividly recalls the overcrowded old facilities, where every available space—including offices—was repurposed for lessons. “We had truly outgrown our space years earlier,” she explains. The campaign was essential for ensuring CMC could continue its mission, providing room for more ensembles and creating a welcoming environment for all.
Carolyn’s journey to CMC was both serendipitous and deeply rooted in her lifelong love for the arts. She first learned about CMC through her son’s tutor, a talented musician and educator at the center. Carolyn has a strong professional background that includes volunteering in Development at Stanford and working on three capital campaigns leading up to CMC, most recently for San Francisco Heritage and the Haas-Lilienthal House.
Another standout memory for Carolyn is a thank-you concert featuring the Alexander String Quartet at the Forest Hill Clubhouse. This event, designed to recognize significant contributors to the capital campaign, was a perfect example of how CMC builds relationships with its supporters. “It was around the holidays and truly a special way to thank everyone,” Carolyn recalls.
As Carolyn retires, her impact on CMC is undeniable. Her efforts have strengthened the organization, expanded its reach, and deepened its connection to the San Francisco community. “I’ve loved introducing people to CMC for the first time and seeing them inspired by its mission,” she says.
In Carolyn’s own words, “It’s the people (meaning the staff, leadership, and faculty) I have gotten to know. I have never worked with a smarter, more dedicated group of people. Everyone is exceptional, really good people, who are there working really hard because they believe so much in the mission of CMC.”
Looking to the future, Carolyn is optimistic about CMC’s continued growth. She envisions the organization expanding its reach even further, touching more lives and continuing to serve as a hub of creativity, learning, and inclusivity in the community. “I hope CMC continues to build on its wonderful foundation,” she shares, “to foster even more collaboration, welcoming diverse voices, and reaching out to communities that haven’t yet discovered the magic of music education.” Carolyn’s vision for CMC is one where the values of accessibility and community remain at the forefront, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of music, just as she has witnessed over the years.
The entire CMC community thanks Carolyn for her years of dedication and wishes her all the best in this next chapter. Her legacy will continue to resonate through the music, the students, and the thriving community she helped build.
As CMC Executive Director Julie Rulyak Steinberg shared, “For eight years, Carolyn has been an extraordinary part of the CMC team. As our campaign director, she understood the importance of growing our home base in the Mission and making it truly accessible to everyone. She puts her heart and soul into our work and the relationships she has cultivated. I am so grateful to know her, and I wish her all the best in her retirement!”