Chester Phillips Appointed Chief Executive Officer
Carolina Crown, Inc. is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Chester B. Phillips as its next Chief Executive Officer. A respected leader in music education and arts administration, Dr. Phillips has spent decades inside the marching arts at the highest levels—as a Drum Corps International adjudicator, accomplished conductor, and designer of more than 200 productions. He brings a deep understanding of the standards and disciplines that define excellence in performance and in shaping young performers and ensembles.
In the role, Dr. Phillips will lead the organization’s strategic direction and day-to-day management, working in close partnership with the Board of Directors, staff, and key constituents to advance Crown’s mission of inspiring and developing lifelong excellence in young people. He will steward Carolina Crown’s continued commitment to artistry and innovation in the marching arts, leadership development, and community impact through the power of the Crown experience.
“Dr. Phillips has a long and distinguished record in the performing arts and knows what it takes to succeed at this level,” said Greg Vaughn, Chair of Carolina Crown’s Board of Directors. “We are energized to welcome him as we build on Crown’s strong foundation and continue raising the bar for what this organization can achieve—positioning Crown for its next phase of excellence.”
Dr. Phillips currently serves as Professor of Music at Georgia State University, where he previously held senior leadership roles as Dean of the College of the Arts and Director of the School of Music. Before his administrative positions, he spent over 20 years as a middle school, high school, and collegiate band director, building and leading programs whose ensembles earned national recognition. His work has appeared in major performance venues and educational settings across the United States and internationally.
“Carolina Crown creates extraordinary experiences that develop young performers and leaders for life, and I’m honored to serve the organization in partnership with our members, alumni, staff, and supporters,” said Dr. Phillips. “I look forward to working together to build on that legacy—sustaining Crown’s place among the top corps in DCI and strengthening its role as a community-based youth arts organization with growing national presence.”
About Carolina Crown, Inc.
Founded in 1988 as the Charlotte Drum Corps Association, Carolina Crown has grown into a world-class performing arts organization and the 2013 Drum Corps International World Class Champion. Through its commitment to enriching the lives of young performers and expanding access to music education, Carolina Crown continues to strengthen communities and impact future generations—grounded in its values of integrity, commitment, respect, and excellence.
