Auburn Symphony Orchestra announces new executive director
Published 7:30 am Saturday, November 29, 2025
Auburn Symphony Orchestra’s board of directors announced the hiring of Gabi Galloway as its new executive director effective January 2026. Galloway currently serves as ASO’s individual giving director and will provide a seamless transition of leadership with outgoing Executive Director Rachel Perry. Galloway said in a statement:
“I am inspired by the potential for ASO to continue growing as a vibrant community resource, reaching new audiences, supporting artists, and deepening its impact throughout South King County. With my experience leading programs, fundraising initiatives, and community partnerships, I am prepared to step into the executive director role with a clear vision: to expand ASO’s programs, strengthen its financial sustainability, and cultivate meaningful connections between the Symphony, its audiences, and the broader community. Auburn is a city I love, and I am energized by the opportunity to lead an organization that already holds such a special place in the hearts of its supporters.”
“I am truly delighted to welcome Gabi Galloway as our new executive director,” said Kevin Paustian, board vice president and search committee chair. “In her time as our individual giving director, Gabi has made an extraordinary impact in an incredibly short period. I have been continually impressed by her energy, professionalism, and genuine passion for connecting with our community. Her ability to build meaningful relationships — with patrons, partners, and arts supporters across Auburn and South King County — has already strengthened the foundation of our organization.”
“What stands out most to me is Gabi’s remarkable gift for bringing people together,” Paustian continued. “Her thoughtful leadership and clear vision for the future have infused the Symphony with renewed momentum. I’ve seen firsthand how her dedication elevates our work, and I am confident that her stewardship will usher in an inspiring next chapter for the Auburn Symphony Orchestra.”
Galloway, a California Institute of the Arts alumna, brings a wealth of experience from her leadership roles in arts education and nonprofit administration. In her current role with Auburn Symphony Orchestra, she has strengthened donor engagement, expanded fundraising initiatives, and launched the Symphony’s first-ever Annual Report. Previously, Gabi served as director of admissions and community outreach at the Texas Center for Arts + Academics, independently managing admissions and program development for two K–12 charter schools, launching a Theatre Conservatory, and expanding summer programming. In addition to her administrative expertise, Gabi is an accomplished experimental filmmaker, theatre artist, and performer. Her films have been featured in the Santa Clarita International Film Festival and Italy’s Dog Film Festival, and her theatre work includes performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Hollywood Fringe Festival, and Houston Shakespeare Festival.
