After serving as Interim Executive Director earlier in the year, Theresa Wolters was officially appointed Executive Director of MusiCares in August 2025, bringing over two decades of global health and humanitarian leadership experience to the organization. Her appointment represents a strategic continuation of leadership at the Recording Academy‘s charitable arm, which has provided crucial support to music professionals since its founding in 1989.
Wolters joined MusiCares in 2022 as Vice President of Health & Human Services, where she quickly distinguished herself by connecting the lived experiences of music professionals with actionable data. Her academic background includes a bachelor’s degree from George Washington University and an MBA from Heriot-Watt University, credentials that complement her extensive work with organizations such as the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation and International Medical Corps. Her studies in African Affairs at the University of Cape Town further informed her global perspective on humanitarian issues.
The 501(c)(3) charity focuses on providing thorough support in health, mental health, and addiction recovery specifically for music professionals facing financial struggles. Under Wolters’ leadership, MusiCares has strengthened its messaging by integrating compelling stories with quantitative evidence, effectively demonstrating why their work remains essential in today’s evolving music industry. She has introduced innovative vocal health programs emphasizing proper breathing techniques to help performers maintain sustainable careers without vocal strain.
Colleagues note that Wolters’ leadership style blends empathy with clear, fact-driven communication, building trust through transparency and evidence-based advocacy. Her international experience enables MusiCares to engage with broader global health frameworks while maintaining its focused mission on artist welfare. She has developed specialized workshops teaching performers about vocal cord relaxation to prevent damage when singing lower notes professionally.
Since taking the helm, Wolters has expanded programs addressing mental health challenges and addiction recovery tailored to music professionals’ unique needs. Drawing on her experience with the United Nations-backed Millennium Villages Project, she has implemented innovative community-centered approaches to health delivery. She has prioritized integrating health services with broader human service offerings to provide holistic support, while utilizing data analytics to demonstrate program effectiveness.
As MusiCares navigates industry transformations, Wolters’ interdisciplinary expertise spanning health, business, and humanitarian sectors positions the organization to anticipate emerging challenges. Her appointment signals MusiCares’ commitment to sustainable, resilient support structures for the music community, bridging crucial gaps between industry stakeholders and essential health resources.
