Breaking Barriers: Dr. Shanté Williams Becomes the First Woman of Color to Lead Opera Carolina.
Dr. Williams has been a member of Opera Carolina’s board of directors and has sponsored previous productions for the company.
Opera Carolina has appointed Dr. Shanté Williams as its new general director, making history as the first woman and person of color to lead the Charlotte, North Carolina opera company since its founding in 1948.
Dr. Williams, a former member of Opera Carolina’s board of directors, will step into her new role on July 1, succeeding James Meena, according to Opera Wire. “I look forward to leading the business operations while Maestro Meena continues as Artistic Director,” Williams said. “With a dynamic staff and passionate board, we will enhance and expand the company’s role as a leader in Charlotte’s artistic community and as a source of healing, inspiration, and joy.
On behalf of the entire board of directors, Board Chair Carol Kendrick expressed her excitement about the appointment. ‘As a Charlotte native, Dr. Williams brings a proven track record in fundraising and business, and we were collectively impressed by her extensive credentials and past support of Opera Carolina.’ Dr. Williams’ appointment comes at a pivotal time, as the company navigates the challenges posed by the pandemic. Her leadership is expected to elevate Opera Carolina to new heights of excellence and strengthen its role as a cornerstone of Charlotte’s artistic community.
The Charlotte businesswoman brings extensive experience to her new role. As the CEO of Black Pearl Vision and its parent company, Black Pearl Global Investments, she manages a $25 million venture capital fund. Her impressive academic background includes degrees from Winston-Salem State University, Queen’s University of Charlotte, and a doctorate in integrated biomedical science from The Ohio State University, as highlighted on her LinkedIn profile.
Dr. Williams’ involvement with Opera Carolina goes beyond her board membership. In 2023, Opera Carolina acknowledged her on Instagram for her contributions to Pre-Curtain Dinners and her role as a primary sponsor for the production of ‘Mary Cardwell Dawson,’ featuring the renowned opera star Denyce Graves.
