South Bend Lyric Opera Names Rita Koehler as Organization’s First Executive Director
Appointment marks significant milestone in South Bend Lyric Opera’s growth and commitment to expanding opera’s presence throughout the region.
South Bend Lyric Opera (SBLO) has named Rita E. Koehler as its first Executive Director, marking a significant milestone for the growing arts organization as it expands its programming, community partnerships, and regional presence.
Koehler brings a unique combination of artistic vision, nonprofit leadership, fundraising, communications and community engagement to the role.
“The creation of our first Executive Director position represents an exciting next chapter for South Bend Lyric Opera,” said Emanuel-Cristian Caraman, Artistic Director and founder. “Rita understands both our organization and our community. She brings tremendous creative energy, strong relationships and a clear vision for helping us grow while remaining true to our mission of making exceptional opera accessible and relevant to audiences across the communities we serve.”
As Executive Director, Koehler will help guide the organization’s strategic growth, oversee operations, cultivate donors and community partnerships, expand audience engagement and work alongside South Bend Lyric Opera’s Artistic Director and the Board of Directors to build upon the organization’s momentum.
Rita Koehler, Executive Director
For Koehler, the opportunity also brings together decades of work at the intersection of art, storytelling, and community. A South Bend-based multimedia artist, librettist, curator and creative professional, Koehler has extensive experience developing multidisciplinary arts initiatives and community-centered programming. Her career has included leadership in strategic communications, donor and patron relations, marketing, event production and public engagement.
Koehler holds a Master of Fine Arts in Visual Studies from Lesley University, a Visual Arts Certificate in Curation from The University of Chicago Graham School, an Associate of Applied Science in Photography from the Art Institute of Houston and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Theology from Saint Mary’s College.
Her experience also includes teaching and mentorship appointments with Hollins University, the University of Notre Dame and Holy Cross College’s Moreau College Initiative, Lesley University, and Indiana University Northwest, as well as artist residencies and lectures across the country.
Koehler’s appointment comes as South Bend Lyric Opera continues to build its programming, creating opportunities for audiences to experience professional opera and vocal performance in inclusive and engaging settings.
The organization’s upcoming season will include performances and special events in venues and communities across Northern Indiana, continuing SBLO’s commitment to bringing artists and audiences together while building a vibrant future for opera.
“Having an Executive Director gives South Bend Lyric Opera the capacity to think bigger about what we can do and who we can reach,” added Coley Mroczek, Board President. “This is an investment not only in the future of our organization, but in the strength and vitality of the arts in our region.”
About South Bend Lyric Opera
South Bend Lyric Opera is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of the region through high-quality operatic performances and community engagement. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the organization continues to make opera accessible, inspiring, and relevant for audiences throughout Northern Indiana.