Stephen Alter’s Post

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Director of Conferences and Business Engagement at the League of American Orchestras

Thoughts On Tenure On My 25th Work Anniversary Yesterday marked my 25th Anniversary with the League of American Orchestras. An amazing milestone to be sure, but in today's fast-paced job market, where frequent career changes are often seen as a pathway to advancement, the idea of staying with a single company for 25 years may seem antiquated to many. However, this steadfast commitment to one employer has yielded numerous benefits for me that extend far beyond a stable paycheck. From personal growth to financial security, my time at the League has allowed me to benefit from an array of wonderful opportunities. Without a doubt, one of the most significant benefits of my lengthy tenure has been the opportunity to develop a deep expertise in my field. Over the years, I’ve accumulated specialized knowledge about the League's products, services, processes, and culture. This extensive familiarity has positioned me to be a go-to resource within the organization, elevating my professional status and credibility. In addition, I’ve found that building deep-rooted relationships takes time, and a 25-year career in one organization continues to allow me to form those integral connections with colleagues, clients, and industry stakeholders. These relationships have enhanced collaboration, facilitated clearer communication, and created a supportive work environment. Furthermore, my well-established network has opened doors to mentorship opportunities, collaborations, and even career advancements, both within and outside my organization. Third… In a world where job security can be a bit ephemeral, staying with the League has provided me with a sense of stability. Being a long-term employee, I have benefited from a more secure employment status, especially during the recession of 2000-2001, the great recession of 2007-2009, and the Covid pandemic. And finally, staying with the League for an extended period has fostered in me a profound sense of identity and belonging which cannot be understated. As I aligned my personal values with the company’s mission, I’ve cultivated a deeper investment in my work. Without a doubt, this alignment has led me to greater job satisfaction and a feeling of purpose, contributing to the overall well-being of our industry. For me, engaging with my company’s culture and community has transformed my workplace from just a job into a significant part of my life’s narrative. I’ve spent half my life with the League, and all but 3 years of my professional career in this industry. I’ve seen colleagues come and go, watched former interns blossom into successful professionals, and have celebrated successes and learned from failures. I have made life-long friendships, been mentored by many, and have mentored many more, and my career has been all the better because of it!  

Jenene Cherney, D.C.

Chiropractor for Performing Artists | On-Site & Touring Care for Musicians | Owner @ Sound Chiropractic | Holism & Vitalism | Podcaster | Health & Arts Advocate ♬ | French Horn | Queer Theory

2mo

Congratulations on your 25 years of service to the League and the performing arts. I love your thoughtful post. This is a world that changes at lightening speed now. As long as the organization grows and you are growing with it, there’s (no shame) just love and respect for 25 years of loyalty. At the end of the day, it’s *your* life and decision and you don’t owe an explanation. It’s fantastic. Sending you a hug.

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Congratulations. As someone who would fall into the second category I can say it’s been an honor and a privledge to work with you over several years. I too found a home for 19 years and can attest to the fact that it takes a lot of character to forge such an important and successful career as you have. Best of luck on many more years with the League.

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Eric Nelson

Vice President, Global Partnerships at TRG Arts

2mo

Cheers and Kudos!!!! The sector, the League, your partners, I, and so many others are so lucky to get to work with you!!!!!

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Kate Kammeyer

Strategic Arts & Cultural Change Management | Creative Programmer & Revenue Generator | DEIAB & Antiracism Advocate

2mo

Thank you for all you do for the field and the stability you have provided with your tenure! Congratulations!

Congratulations! I cannot fathom that you have been there that long which means we worked together before that!

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Francine Green

Chief Operating Officer at Liberty Orthotics, Inc.

2mo

Congratulations on your work anniversary! Must be in the blood because I will be celebrating 29 years in November.

Debbie Kestin Schildkraut

Marketing Leader | Fractional CMO | Strategic Alliance Executive | ex-IBM | Tech4Good Evangelist | Community Builder | DEIB Champion | Board Member | Cabaret Singer 🎤 | World Traveler 🌎

2mo

Congratulations on this wonderful milestone! You're absolutely right! The partnerships and friendships that you build along the way contribute to ongoing success and happiness. Cheers to the next 25!!

Katherine Yang

Education Management | Community Engagement | Program Development | Music & Arts Administration

2mo

Congratulations on 25 years, Steve! I was so fortunate to be able to work with you in the beginning stages of my career in music/arts administration and learned so much from you! Thank you so much for your commitment and dedication to the field !

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Allison Whitehall

Leadership and Planned Giving Director at McCarter Theatre Center

2mo

What great observations! The League is lucky to have had you for so long.

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Melanie Clarke

Co- Vice Chair at League of American Orchestras

2mo

Steve, Thank you for your incredible service to the League and to orchestras and congratulations for all you have accomplished!

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