​Robert Kennedy Community Service Award

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Robert Kennedy
In 2018, with the celebration of its 70th Anniversary, the Worcester Youth Orchestras created the Robert Kennedy Community Service Award to recognize a member of the community who has provided opportunities and outstanding support to young people in the community. Robert Kennedy has not only been a major supporter of WYO, but also to young people in Central Massachusetts, ensuring that they have access to performing in a world class venue, Mechanics Hall. It seemed only fitting that we honor Bob when he retired in 2018 from his position as Executive Director at Mechanics Hall.

2018 - Robert M. Kennedy, Executive Director, Mechanics Hall
2019 - Bruce Hopper, Past WYO Board Chair & Board Member
2020 - Deborah Cole, Head of Music, Burncoat High School
2021 - Johnetta Smith, Band Director, South High School
2022 - Kevin Maguire & Sara Hubbard, WYO Board Members - In recognition of 10 years of service. 
2023 - Sarah Smongeski, Executive Director, Pakachoag Music School
2024 - Chloe Nester Sundberg, Art Teacher, Worcester Public Schools

2024 Recipient: Chloe Nester Sundberg

Chloe Nester Sundberg is a graduate of North High School in Worcester. Chloe was an elementary Art teacher in the Worcester Public Schools for 37 years. She continues to give back to our community by volunteering at the Worcester Art Museum and the Worcester Center For Crafts as well as sharing her love of the french horn. Chloe was instrumental in organizing a city-wide arts festival on the Common. She is an alumna of the Worcester Youth Orchestras, and a founding member of the 1947 class with conductor Harry Levenson. Many of Chloe's students went on to play in the Worcester Youth Orchestras over the coming decades. Chloe has influenced the lives of thousands of children in the visual and musical arts as an educator and arts activist. The Worcester Youth Orchestras are pleased to make this award to not only a WYO alumna, but also an outstanding member of the community.