Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Appoints Steven M. Schwab as New VP for Development

Rochester, NY – The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra is pleased to announce the appointment of Steven M. Schwab as its new Vice President for Development, effective Monday, May 5.  “Mr. Schwab impressed the Search Committee and those whom he met on the RPO staff with his high energy, enthusiasm and creativity, as well as his impressive track record and close personal ties with many of this community’s philanthropic, corporate, civic and political leaders,” noted RPO President & CEO Charles Owens.  “We are confident that he is the perfect choice to advance our development program at this exciting and pivotal time in the RPO’s history.”

Heading the RPO’s Development staff, Mr. Schwab will design and execute fundraising and underwriting efforts exceeding $4.6 million annually; help strategize the planning and implementation of the RPO’s part in the renovation of the Eastman Theatre and the renovation of its administrative offices; and lead the organization’s next endowment campaign.

A Rochester city resident, Mr. Schwab currently is Deputy Chief of Staff at the Office of Mayor Robert J. Duffy, where he managed the planning, transition and establishment of the new Mayor’s office for its first term, and established and manages the new city initiative, “One City Fund,” which raises philanthropic resources for worthy city programs, among many other duties.  Prior to his three years with the City, Mr. Schwab worked as the Director of Corporate Relations/Development at Rochester Institute of Technology, as well as in various positions with the New York City Partnership and Chamber of Commerce, and the New York Republican County Committee, where he worked closely with Mayor Giuliani.  He received his bachelor of arts degree from SUNY Albany.

Although disappointed to be losing a valuable member of his team, Mayor Duffy conveyed his congratulations and good wishes to the RPO.  “Steve has been an invaluable member of my staff.  As sad as I am to see him leave City Hall, I am thrilled that he will be joining the leadership team at the RPO, which contributes so much to the vitality of downtown Rochester and the entire region.”