After a national search for a new Executive Director, following the retirement of John Gilbreath last year, Earshot Jazz has chosen Dr. Stephan Blanford for the role. As a seasoned nonprofit leader, community organizer, and lifelong jazz devotee, he’s perfectly suited to lead Earshot Jazz as they grow.
Maurice James, Earshot Jazz Board Chair, explains,
“Stephan embodies the kind of leadership that inspires confidence, energizes community, and strengthens our mission at every level. His depth of nonprofit experience, combined with his lifelong passion for jazz, makes him the ideal person to shepherd Earshot into its next chapter. We’re thrilled to welcome him, and we know our audiences, artists, and partners will feel his commitment to this work from day one.”
As Executive Director he will focus on deepening community partnerships, expanding philanthropic support, and strengthening Earshot’s role in Seattle’s jazz scene. He will work closely with staff, the board, and Earshot’s artistic partners, and regional collaborators to continue the organization’s dedication to jazz as a profound cultural force. As he says,
“I am honored to step into this role and am eager to help Earshot Jazz continue to grow as an organization, while continuing the outstanding programs that we’re known and loved for. I’m eager to listen, collaborate, and build with the artists, audiences, and partners who make this scene so extraordinary. Together, we’ll carry this legacy forward with creativity, equity, and renewed energy.”
About Stephan
Stephan brings 20+ years of nonprofit leadership experience guiding mission-driven organizations through periods of change, growth, and impact.
Previously, he was the Executive Director of Children’s Alliance, where he secured billions of dollars in new investments to improve the lives of Washington’s children. Prior to that, Stephan was elected Seattle Public Schools Board Director and was the founding Executive Director of the White Center Early Learning Initiative. In those roles he was recognized for his equity-centered approach to educational leadership.
In speaking of his work, a colleague had this to say: “Stephan is a creative thinker that knows how to hold the big picture in mind [while] figuring out how and what needs to be done to drive change at a practical and tactical level. He marries both intellect and heart in his approach to managing change – a rare and essential quality.”
About Earshot Jazz
Earshot Jazz honors jazz as a vital Black American art form through live performances, artist advocacy, and community engagement. Their mission is to ensure that jazz thrives as a great American gift to global culture.
They cultivate a dynamic and diverse jazz community in Seattle through concerts, a monthly magazine, and their annual jazz festival. For 40+ years Earshot Jazz has been offering year-round programming to feature local and emerging artists from the Pacific Northwest alongside international jazz musicians.
About Valtas
Valtas places experienced nonprofit leaders as Interim Executive Directors to support organizations as they navigate a leadership change. Our team assists in times of transition by leading the executive search process in partnership with the board to select the ideal replacement for a leader that has left.
We also offer board advisory services to offer boards the peace of mind they need throughout a transition so they can govern effectively, plan for the future, and build the leadership alignment needed to sustain the mission.
Contact us today to learn more about our executive interim and placement services.
