In his five years as the ASOL's chief executive, Fogel stabilized the organization's finances, raised its profile in the wider classical music community, launched a $25 million capital campaign, and oversaw the development of a strategic plan, finalized earlier this year, to revamp the way the League serves its member orchestras.
In a statement released today, ASOL board chairman Lowell Noteboom said, "The League's health and stability are due in no small part to Henry's diligence and foresight, and as we transition into the implementation phase of our strategic planning, it is important that we recognize Henry's visionary role in the process."
The ASOL board of directors voted unanimously to appoint Jesse Rosen, currently the League's executive vice president and managing director, to succeed Fogel, effective as of July 2008. Rosen, who joined the organization's staff in 1998, was the main instigator and developer of the League's new strategic plan and has been the primary architect of the League's highly-regarded annual conferences.
Of his successor and his future plans, Fogel said (in the statement released today), "I am so pleased to pass the proverbial baton to Jesse ... Quite simply, I couldn't leave the organization in better hands. It's been no secret that my passion has been working in the field to help the orchestra community at large, and I look forward to continuing my League association and devoting my work to that mission."
Fogel will continue to work half-time for the League, primarily "in the field" as a direct liaison to member orchestras. He will also be involved in the organization's fundraising and conductor training programs.
This is the second major staff change announced at the League in three months. In August, Robert Sandla — a longtime contributor to Playbill's print editions for a number of fine arts venues and formerly editor in chief at Stagebill, the predecessor of Playbill's Classic Arts Division — was appointed editor in chief of Symphony, a monthly magazine published by the League.
