News Summary
The Cleveland Orchestra has selected Richard J. Kramer as its new chair of the board of trustees, succeeding Richard K. Smucker. Kramer, a business leader with extensive experience, has been involved with the orchestra for several years and aims to continue its artistic excellence. Smucker was honored with a distinguished award during the transition.
Cleveland
The Cleveland Orchestra has announced the election of Richard J. Kramer as its new chair of the board of trustees. The decision was made during the orchestra’s annual meeting held on October 9, with the announcement following on October 13. Kramer is a noted business and community leader, and he becomes the 14th individual to hold this key position in the organization’s 107-year history.
Kramer succeeds Richard K. Smucker, who served as chair from 2017 until 2025. Having been a board member since 2018, Kramer has also served as vice chair since 2023. His long-standing involvement with the orchestra includes participation in several committees, such as the Campaign Cabinet, Distinguished Service Award, Nominating and Governance, and Personnel committees. Since 2024, he has chaired the board’s Finance Committee.
Professional Background
Richard J. Kramer previously held the role of chairman, president, and CEO of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. from 2010 until January 2024. Under his leadership, Goodyear grew as a leading global tire company. A native of Cleveland, Kramer graduated from John Carroll University and remained active in the alumni community, serving as a trustee from 2007 to 2019. His extensive professional experience includes positions on boards for prominent organizations such as the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, Whirlpool, Cleveland Clinic, and CNH Industrial. For his significant contributions to economic and community development in the Akron region, Kramer received the H. Peter Burg Award in 2024.
Leadership Transition
The orchestral community acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing chair, Richard K. Smucker, during the October 9 concert. He was honored with the orchestra’s Distinguished Service Award, recognizing his exceptional commitment to the organization. In recognition of Smucker’s transformative impact during his tenure, the Cleveland Orchestra has established the Richard K. Smucker President & CEO Chair.
Smucker has been an integral part of the Cleveland Orchestra since 1989, serving on various committees throughout his time on the board. His leadership has been a significant factor in the orchestra’s success, and he leaves behind a legacy of dedication that will continue to benefit the organization.
Future of The Cleveland Orchestra
Looking ahead, under Kramer’s leadership, the Cleveland Orchestra plans to continue its strong tradition of artistic excellence with a diverse programming lineup for the upcoming season. This season will feature prominent works and collaborations that are expected to enrich the cultural landscape of Cleveland and attract audiences from near and far.
As Kramer steps into this pivotal role, the organization anticipates a new chapter filled with promise as it builds on its rich history while continuing to engage and inspire the community through music.
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Additional Resources
- Crain’s Cleveland: Cleveland Orchestra Elects Richard J. Kramer as Board Chair
- Wikipedia: Cleveland Orchestra
- Cleveland.com: Pianist Daniil Trifonov Brings Brahms’ Vision to Life
- Google Search: Cleveland Orchestra
- WKYC: Cleveland Orchestra 2025-26 Season Full List of Concerts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orchestra
- Colin’s Column: Cleveland Orchestra Announces Return of Summers at Severance
- Google News: Cleveland Orchestra News
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