ASO New Executive Director

ASO New Executive Director

ASO New Executive Director

Meet Jacqueline Hettich - ASO's New Executive


The Acadiana Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors has announced that Jackie Hettich is stepping into the role of Executive Director. A local entrepreneur, community volunteer, and advocate for civic engagement, Hettich has built and led several successful business and community initiatives.

“I am incredibly honored to step into this role at such an important and exciting time for the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra,” said Hettich. “I believe so strongly in this organization, in the extraordinary talent of our musicians, and in the power of music to bring people together. ASO has a beautiful legacy in Acadiana, and I am excited to help build on that legacy while also inviting more people into the experience.”

Hettich joined the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra Board last season and quickly became involved in the organization’s communications, community outreach, donor engagement, and long-term planning efforts. In her new role as Executive Director, she will help lead the organization into an exciting season of renewed energy, expanded visibility, and deeper community engagement.

“Jackie has already brought tremendous enthusiasm, creativity, and momentum to the Acadiana Symphony,” said Robert Schacht, President of the Board of Directors. “She understands the importance of this organization, not only as a performing arts institution, but as a vital part of the cultural fabric of our community. We are excited to have her step into this leadership role as we look toward the future of ASO.”

As Executive Director, Hettich will focus on strengthening community partnerships, expanding donor and volunteer engagement, increasing visibility for the symphony, and supporting the organization’s artistic and educational mission. She is especially passionate about creating more opportunities for families, young professionals, students, and longtime supporters to feel connected to ASO.

“We have so much opportunity in front of us,” Hettich added. “This is a moment to reintroduce the symphony to Acadiana in a fresh and exciting way. My hope is that people see ASO not as something distant or formal, but as something vibrant, welcoming, and a part of this community. I want everyone to feel as if this is their symphony.”

Hettich’s appointment comes as the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra continues to build momentum around its upcoming season, educational programming, community partnerships, and signature events. With a renewed focus on accessibility, engagement, and sustainability, ASO is working to strengthen its role as one of Acadiana’s leading cultural institutions.

 










 


It is an absolute honor to accept the role of Executive Director of the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra.


Ten years ago, I attended my first ASO performance, a chamber concert at St. John’s Cathedral, and completely fell in love. Our Symphony has held a special place in my heart ever since, for reasons that are deeply personal to me.


Serving on the Board of Directors last season gave me a much fuller understanding of everything that happens behind the scenes to make not only our performances possible, but also our broader mission to inspire culture through music.


I am incredibly grateful to the Board of Directors for the trust they have placed in me. The significance of this responsibility is not lost on me, and I am committed to helping guide ASO thoughtfully and confidently into its next chapter.


This is such an exciting moment for our organization. ASO has 42 years of incredible history that deserves to be honored and respected, while also creating space for fresh ideas, new audiences, and renewed energy. I look forward to working alongside our new conductor, Matthew Kraemer, as well as our talented musicians, staff, board, donors, and community partners to build on that legacy.


My hope is to make the Symphony feel welcoming, relevant, and exciting to all of Acadiana. I want longtime patrons to feel proud of where we are going, and I want those who have never attended a performance to feel that the Symphony belongs to them, too.


There is so much opportunity ahead of us, and I could not be more excited to begin this new chapter together.


 


Jackie Hettich