Meet From the Top’s Board Chair!

Kathleen van Bergen on Stepping into the Role of Board Chair at From the Top

After years of distinguished leadership in the arts, Kathleen van Bergen is taking on a new role as Board Chair of From the Top. Kathleen, who is in her 14th season as President and CEO of Artis—Naples, is well-known for her strategic vision, financial stewardship, and her ability to foster community and organizational growth. A violinist by training, Kathleen brings a blend of musical insight and strategic expertise to From the Top, with a commitment to fostering young talent in music.

In this conversation, Kathleen reflects on her journey with From the Top, her hopes for the organization, and the importance of music as a universal language. Her experience at the helm of one of Florida’s premier arts institutions and her years in artistic leadership roles bring a unique perspective to her approach to governance and mentorship at From the Top.

Q: What led you to From the Top, and what was your journey to becoming Board Chair?

Kathleen van Bergen: “Probably like most people who get involved in a nonprofit organization, you’re a fan from afar. Then, you find out you have a connection with someone who’s more involved, and they bring you further into the fold. Suddenly, you find yourself saying yes to more responsibilities because you believe in the organization and the mission and the impact.”

Q: How do you connect with From the Top’s programming in your daily life?

Kathleen: “On the one hand, I’m a ‘Daily Joy’ listener, just like every From the Top fan. I love that it’s short and sweet, just a couple of minutes of a talented musician, and I love that it fits into my day. And then on the other hand, because of my role here I have the extraordinary opportunity to see the work being done, up close and personal. I was recently at a recording session in New York with Guest Host Orli Shaham. They recorded with three different musicians, and it was fascinating getting to watch the musicians learn about themselves as they went through the broadcast. Their parents and teachers were there, as well as a small group of board members and donors, and it was a very intimate and inspiring experience.”

Q: What do you think sets From the Top apart, and where would you like to see it grow?

Kathleen: “Most people know of the radio show and think that’s 90% of what From the Top does. But during the pandemic, [Executive Director] Gretchen [Nielsen] and her team were able to expand programmatic offerings significantly. So much of the Learning and Media Labs, the fellowship program, exists because of virtual engagement. They’re creating these classes of fellows who know each other from all around the country through music. It’s not just celebrating the big moments on the radio broadcast—it’s about bringing young people together and giving them platforms to address what they’re passionate about as they step into adulthood.”

Q: As a leader with experience across several prestigious institutions, how do your past roles inform your approach as Board Chair at From the Top?

Kathleen: “I hope it’s informed by all of those perspectives. Even in my professional world, I fancy myself a bit of a governance junkie. Authority and where that line resides are so important for how organizations accomplish their work. So, while I take my role seriously and know my responsibility is to support, I also believe you have to question, probe, and push. It’s about striking a balance between supporting and governing. When I was asked to consider the board chair position, I knew it would involve thinking about my role with Gretchen and being her governance partner. Every relationship is unique, I’m excited because we agree so completely on what makes that working relationship an effective one.”

Q: Do you have any advice for people interested in getting involved with nonprofits or joining boards?

Kathleen: “I read recently that one in ten people work in a nonprofit organization. It’s amazing when you think about it—hospitals, teachers, all the nonprofit work that makes up the energy and goodness in our world. Serving a nonprofit, whether as an employee, volunteer, or donor, is really what makes our communities thrive. My advice is to go with your gut. If there’s an organization that speaks to you, whether it’s in the arts, social services, or any nonprofit field, give it a try. And remember, volunteerism is supposed to bring you joy. And From the Top is an organization that brings me joy every day—I couldn’t be more proud or excited to serve as Chair.”

Kathleen van Bergen’s leadership arrives at an exciting time in the organization’s evolution, as From the Top marks its 25th anniversary next year. With a legacy of nurturing young musicians and a future filled with innovative programming, From the Top is poised for even greater impact in the years ahead. There’s never been a better time to join Kathleen and become part of this vibrant community, whether as a listener, volunteer, or donor. Together, we can help shape the next chapter for these young musicians and ensure that From the Top’s mission continues to flourish and reach audiences nationwide for the next 25 years and beyond.