WHO WE ARE
THE MUSIC ACADEMY BOARD MEMBERS
Dr. John Locke, Board Chair
UNCG Music Professor Emeritus
"I hope to provide the kinds of experiences for the MANC students that will be as meaningful to each of them as my own early musical education was for me."
Kathryn Larson, Immediate Past Chair
Retired Financial Advisor for Ameriprise
"Music is universal. In its many forms, it reaches out and touches our souls. MANC, as a community music school, reaches out into our community and makes music accessible to all. We need more music in our lives."
Dianne Berberich, Treasurer
Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance
Master’s Degree in Music Therapy
Retired VP of Finance & Administration for ACW Management Corporation
"I’ve always loved music from an early age and know it’s very important for learning at all ages."
George Kong, Secretary
Lead Systems Engineer and Engineering Technical Manager for General Dynamics Mission Systems; Former business owner and director at the Greater Richmond School of Music (GRSM), Richmond, VA
"I enjoy helping develop and grow an already exceptional quality music education academy in a welcoming and safe learning environment for our community."
Andrew Collier
Retired VP Aerospace Industry
"I’m passionate about serving in the music academy because it isn’t just a place to learn technique—it’s a place where creativity, discipline, and emotional expression come together to shape well-rounded individuals. Being part of that journey, through supporting students behind the scenes, feels incredibly meaningful to me. I love the idea of contributing to a space where talent is nurtured, confidence is built, and lifelong passion is sparked."
Zeke Duncan
Student and Legal Assistant
"I believe in the power of music education and want to help MANC continue expanding access and impact for musicians of all backgrounds."
Ken Gay, Jr.
Singer/Songwriter, Musician, Former Asst. VP Tech - Wells Fargo, Entrepreneur
"Music people are my tribe as music is my passion! I serve The Music Academy of North Carolina to give back and pay forward a portion of the time music mentors invested in me. I am excited to contribute any talents and skills I have developed in the Music Business/Production, in Tech for Corporate America, or as a business owner."
David Levine
Elon University School of Law Professor
"MANC has been a wonderful school for my sons and the professional dedication displayed by the faculty for music education and theory is remarkable. I want to give back to MANC for all it’s done for my family and the greater Greensboro community and help it expand its offerings, reach, and reputation."
Jory Marino
Partner Emeritus, Heidrick & Struggles
"As a piano student at MANC I have experienced the incredible work and dedication of leadership and faculty. I also believe in the mission of ‘Lessons for Life!” and as a Board member hope to do my part in its’ continuance."
David McDonald
Attorney, McDonald Wright LLP
"The Music Academy is bringing the joy of making music to so many people, who have such distinct backgrounds and approaches to life. Yet here is the universal language, that enriches all, those who listen and those who play. But it is the joy of playing music that can accompany one as a loyal best friend throughout one's entire lifetime, that is the experience mostly to be sought. And at MANC, it happens every day."
Pamela Murphy
Retired from family manufacturing company
"Music can unite us as a group while still serving the individual."
WHY DO YOU GIVE?
MANC board members share why they volunteer their time and the impact MANC has on the community.