Lifelong singer, chorus director to lead Harmony Foundation

Perry White, D.M.A., has accepted the position of Chief Executive Officer of Harmony Foundation International, and is scheduled to begin April 3, 2017.

“Members of the staff, the Board of Trustees and I are very enthusiastic to welcome a talented person uniquely passionate for both music and education, with a history of success in leadership roles,” said Sharon Miller, Acting CEO of Harmony Foundation. “There are not enough words of gratitude for our search team, Shannon Elswick, Mike Deputy, John Miller, Brian Sagrestano, Ryan Killeen, Don Laursen and Lynn Weaver, who worked tirelessly to make this happen.” 

White has served as the president of Bethel College in North Newton, Kansas, since 2010. During that time, his successful track record of leadership includes completing two strategic planning processes, leading a record-breaking fundraising year for the institution, and creating the Center for Nonprofit Leadership and Innovation.

In addition to his experience at Bethel, White has 32 years of experience with administrative focus on strategic planning, staff leadership/professional development and fundraising. Holding the degree Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting, his career track ultimately led him to Harmony Foundation where he can combine his love of music and philanthropy.

“I always intended to return to music in some fashion before my working years were through,” White said. “However, I never expected such a perfect fit for my experience in choral music education, fundraising and organizational leadership to come along this soon. I am thrilled and honored to join the Harmony Foundation team!”

White was selected from an extensive national search process led by Aspen Leadership Group. Once on board with Harmony Foundation, he will be located in Harmony Hall in Nashville, Tennessee. He will assume the leadership role from Miller, who is the immediate past chair for the HFI Board of Trustees.