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Paul Shaffer, to receive Lifetime Achievement Award in NJ, talks Letterman, disco hit (Asbury Park Press)

Helen H. Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director, and Peter H. Gistelinck, Executive Director renew their contract and commitment to the Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts through 2026 and 2027.

BERKELEY HEIGHTS, NJ, February 22, 2022  — The Board of Trustees of the Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts announced it has extended the contracts of Artistic Director Helen H. Cha-Pyo and Executive Director Peter H. Gistelinck.

Said Robert Hamburger, President of the Board of Trustees, “We are excited to announce the contract extensions of our very talented leadership team. Peter Gistelinck, Executive Director, and Helen Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director, have brought a level of excellence to the Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts that has benefited the many students and communities that we serve. The Board of Trustees appreciates their tireless efforts on behalf of the organization and now can look forward to many more years of their positive impact as we embark on our dynamic impactful strategic plans.”

The organization has launched a 5-year strategic plan, including a $6 million endowment to support the expansion of its scholarship fund and further the vision of accessibility for all. More information about the strategic plan and how you can contribute to the endowment will be shared with the community over the coming months.

Said Helen H. Cha-Pyo, “I am grateful to the Wharton Arts Board of Trustees for the confidence and trust they have shown in me. I am thrilled to continue to work with the exceptionally talented executive director Peter H. Gistelinck and the outstanding team of artistic and program staff in advancing the mission of the organization. I look forward to many more years of working toward building inclusive communities through transformative performing arts education for all.”

Said Peter H. Gistelinck, “I am truly honored, humbled and grateful to the Board of Trustees and its President for the trust in its executive leadership. These are times of great opportunity and excitement as Wharton Arts approved a 5-year strategic plan that will propel our institution into the next phase of growth under the artistic leadership of Helen H. Cha-Pyo, our very accomplished Artistic Director.”

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