Carlehr Swanson
President/Founder
Carlehr Swanson is the founder and president of Music is U. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in Critical Studies in Sound and Music at the University of Virginia. She holds a Master’s in Jazz Vocal Performance from the University of Miami and a Bachelor’s in Jazz Studies from George Mason University.
In 2024, Carlehr was proud to represent her home state as Miss Virginia in the Miss America Opportunity. Her earliest musical memory is attending church with her mother and grandmother and enjoying the choir’s music.
Birdie Jamison
Outreach Director
Judge Birdie Jamison, Music is U Community Outreach Director, is a long time advocate of arts education and has worked tirelessly to advance access to the arts for all students.
Over the years, she has been involved with helping many young people develop their skills and abilities in music, drama, art, writing and dance. Since her retirement from the bench, Judge Jamison has devoted countless hours of community service to support and uplift the long term benefits of the arts for everyone.
Carolyn Swanson
Treasurer
Carolyn Swanson, Treasurer and Secretary for Music is U, is dedicated to using music to create meaningful connections and bring joy to others. Witnessing people smile, clap, and sing along to their favorite songs continues to inspire her work and reminds her of the powerful impact music can have.
Her love for music began in church, where she learned of its powerful qualities of healing and encouragement. as a child, she and her siblings often performed for their older relatives under the nickname “The Chapman 5.” These early experiences sparked her lifelong passion for performing.
Vincent Starks
Operations and Development Director
Vincent Starks, Music is U Operations and Development Director, is a Senior Operations Analyst at a global company head- quartered in Charlotte, NC. Originally from Richmond, VA, he brings a blend of technical experience and operational insight to everything he does.
His musical journey began at age 10 on the piano, which grew into more than a decade (and counting!) of playing alto saxophone. He is excited to bring his experience as an Operations and Development Director to the Music is U nonprofit, supporting its mission and helping expand the impact of its work.
Ellis Nolan
Social Media and Marketing Director
Ellis Nolan is the Social Media and Marketing Director for Music is U. his earliest musical memories include playing “drums” on his parents couch and learning “Oye Como Va” on guitar from his next-door neighbors.
He holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in Music (with Highest Distinction) from the University of Virginia, where he studied with Drs. JoVia Armstrong and Ted Coffey. Currently working as a graphic designer, he has worked in collaboration with organizations such as UVA’s Karsh Institute, Mini Museum, LLC, and AMC Networks.
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