GREENSBORO, N.C. (October 30, 2024) – Eastern Music Festival (EMF) announces the addition of new members to its Board of Directors, whose expertise, dedication, and leadership will strengthen the festival’s mission of cultivating young musical talent. As the organization prepares for its 64th season, EMF’s Board and leadership team are poised to build on the festival’s legacy of artistic excellence and community engagement.

New Board Members for 2025

Joining the Board of Directors for the 2025-2027 term are:

• Jay Brower is an experienced real estate professional with over 13 years in the field and an additional 19 years in the pharmaceutical sales industry. As a lifelong resident of the Triad, Jay offers a rich understanding of the local market and actively participates in the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce. He is excited to bring his communication and sales expertise to support EMF’s mission.
  
  
• Ty Buckner has served for 23 years as Vice President of Communications and Marketing at Guilford College, where he developed the Bryan Series of lectures. A UNCG graduate and Charlotte native, Ty has a strong commitment to higher education and community engagement. He is a dedicated supporter of EMF and active in Greensboro’s First Presbyterian Church.
  
  
• Lou McMillion, a Greensboro resident since 1995, holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UNCG. A dedicated advocate for the arts, she has served on the boards of Friends of the University Libraries at UNCG and the Arts Council of Greater Greensboro. A longtime supporter of EMF, Lou has enjoyed witnessing the festival’s growth and looks forward to bringing her energy and enthusiasm to the board.
  
  
• William Tipton, an EMF trumpet alumnus, grew up in Greensboro as the neighbor of EMF’s founder, Sheldon Morgenstern. This close connection fostered a deep familiarity with EMF from an early age. Following a successful career as a young classical and jazz musician, William pursued a business degree at UNCG. After living in Jacksonville, FL, and Austin, TX, in the spring of 2024 he returned to Greensboro where he now works in business and technology.
  
  

Re-elected Board Members

Continuing their dedicated service to EMF, four current board members have been re-elected:

Noah Hock (Attorney) – Serving his 2nd three-year term
Kami Rowan (Educator) – Serving her 2nd three-year term
Bernfried Messner (Retired Scientist) – Serving his 3rd three-year term
Melanie Tuttle (Attorney) – Serving her 3rd three-year term

Honoring Departing Board Members

EMF extends heartfelt gratitude to outgoing board members Jay Gwatkin, Dabney Sanders, Sarah Warmath, Catriona Kyle-Rice, Al Stephens, and Lisa Underwood, whose invaluable contributions have shaped the organization. Their commitment and service have left a lasting impact on the festival and its community.

Leadership Transition and Looking Ahead

Anne Starr Denny steps into the role of Board Chair. As the owner of Starr Marketing, Anne helps clients streamline their marketing strategies and create impactful plans. She also has extensive experience in television, media, e-commerce, and event management. Adding to her dedication to EMF, Anne carries a rich family legacy; her late father, Fred Starr, and mother, Sue Starr, were both devoted board members and past board chairs, leaving an indelible mark on the organization.

EMF extends heartfelt thanks to outgoing Board Chair Al Stephens, whose invaluable guidance over the past year has laid the groundwork for this next chapter.