Community Focus – January 7, 2026

Joan Walton became the Executive Director of the Michigan Philharmonic in the Fall of 2025.  She replaced Beth Stewart, who retired after 17 years serving the orchestra.  Ms. Walton came to the Michigan Philharmonic with over 25 years of experience in education, nonprofits, and the arts. She has been a leader with the Belle Isle Conservancy, the Detroit Institute of Arts, Gleaners and the Detroit Zoo. She has also worked for Ford Motor Company and most recently was the director of community and volunteer engagement at the Zaman International, where she helped coordinate the nonprofit’s role in the U.S. State Department’s “Welcome Corps” helping international refugees.  88.1 the Park’s Alyssa Ajai spoke with her about her background and the important work of the Michigan Philharmonic.

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