09/04/2026
Musical Empowerment announced today that Lorie Canady Barnes has joined as Executive Director. Barnes is a longtime educator, nonprofit leader, and North Carolina native, bringing more than 40 years of experience in education, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement.
"Lorie brings a unique combination of leadership, experience, and a deep commitment to children and communities," said Sinclair Palmer, Program Director of Musical Empowerment. "Every year, our mentors give more than 5,000 hours of music lessons to children who might not otherwise have access to them. Lorie's leadership will help us build on that impact and reach even more young people in the years ahead."
Barnes joins Musical Empowerment most recently from Meredith College, where she taught in the Child Development Program. She previously spent 12 years as Executive Director of NCAEYC, leading North Carolina’s state affiliate of the National Association for the Education of Young Children connecting a broad network of staff, volunteers, and community partners in support of children, families, and educators. Her career also spans leadership and faculty roles at institutions including Marbles Kids Museum and Wake Technical Community College, along with teaching inclusive music and movement classes for young children with and without special needs in her community. She holds a Master of Education in Early Intervention and Family Support from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
"I am deeply honored to serve alongside the exceptional leaders, mentors, students, families, and supporters who make Musical Empowerment such a remarkable organization," said Barnes. "What inspires me most is the strength of this community through its shared belief in the intrinsic power of music to transform lives and shared commitment to nurturing learning and well-being through music and meaningful mentorship."
