Linda Rodgers Emory named as Honorary Chair of Music for Autism Board of Directors

by Laura Lazar

Following her outstandingly generous gift of $150,000, Music for Autism is pleased to announce that Linda Rodgers Emory of the Richard and Dorothy Rodgers Fund of UJA-Federation has been unanimously named Honorary Chair of the Music for Autism Board of Directors. The first part of her donation inspired the inception of the Linda Rodgers Emory Concert Series, and the follow up gift allowed for its continuance through 2015 with expansion to Southern Brooklyn and Queens. Ms. Emory’s support has also provided M4A the means to hire full-time Executive Director, Eileen Schneyman, an unprecedented boon for the future growth and expansion of the organization.

“Music for Autism is honored to have Linda Rodgers Emory as a dedicated partner advancing our mission,” said Jamie Pagliaro, Chair of the Board. “She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to bringing high-quality musical experiences into the lives of individuals with autism and their families, and truly recognizes the importance of these events to our audience from a quality-of-life perspective. Her spark and energy have inspired all of us involved to broaden our vision for the future of Music for Autism.”

Linda Rodgers Emory, Richard Rodgers’ daughter, was made aware of Music for Autism by Anita Altman of the UJA-Federation. The concert series is named in her honor and has already included performances by Broadway’s Jersey Boys, Keynotes “Duettists” Peggy Rich and Marvin Friedman, and the Children’s Orchestra Faculty & Alumni Ensemble. As part of this series, a second concert with the Children’s Orchestra Faculty & Alumni Ensemble is planned for Fall 2011, and Keynotes Duet will stage their encore with M4A in November as well. Jamie, speaking on behalf of the Board, is so grateful that, “through Linda’s generosity, we have been able to expand our presence in New York City to this regular series of concert performances across the five boroughs. We are also thrilled to have been able to hire Eileen to continue a focused growth plan in five other cities nationwide – with many more to come.”