This session explores how arts organizations can operate more effectively in 2026 by streamlining capacity, rebuilding engagement, and identifying practical, low-lift revenue strategies that are working right now. Grounded in real-time field experience, the presenters bring national perspective and on-the-ground leadership from El Sistema USA, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and YOLA, offering actionable insights on navigating complexity, making strategic decisions, and sustaining impact in a rapidly shifting landscape.
Details
Wednesday, October 14th 2026 // Virtual and free to attend
11:00 am-12:30 pm PST/1:00-2:30 pm CST/2:00-3:30 pm EST
Please Note: This session will be recorded and shared on our website as a resource under our “RESOURCES” section.
Speakers Bio
Lauren Shelton
Founder, Beacon Arts Group | Past Board Chair, El Sistema USA
Lauren Shelton is a nationally recognized arts education leader and strategist focused on expanding equitable access and building community-driven learning environments.
Her career spans teaching, nonprofit leadership, and higher education, with a systems-level approach to program design, workforce development, and policy alignment. She founded the award-winning Community Opus Project with the San Diego Youth Symphony, led an $18 million arts initiative in Chula Vista, and later directed the Butler Community Arts School.
Through Beacon Arts Group, Lauren advises nonprofits, schools, and cultural organizations on strategy and program development, and she completed her tenure as Board Chair of El Sistema USA.
Camille Delaney-McNeil
Vice President, Learning, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Camille Delaney-McNeil is an arts leader, musician, and advocate for social change through music. A classically trained singer and flutist, she holds degrees from the University of Maryland and the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University. She began her leadership journey with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s OrchKids program, where she served as Director of Programs, supporting nearly 2,000 students and leading innovative program design and community-based initiatives. She currently serves in learning leadership at the Los Angeles Philharmonic, advancing access to high-quality music education through YOLA and the Beckmen YOLA Center. Camille is also a Board Member of El Sistema USA and a recognized national voice on equity, youth access, and social change through the arts.
