Aubrey Wellfare
Aubrey Wellfare, MA, is a passionate and experienced leader in nonprofit administration and arts education with a strong focus on program strategy, community outreach, and evaluation. As Program Director at Kidznotes in Durham, North Carolina, she oversees music education programming that reaches thousands of students and community members annually. Aubrey leads a dynamic team of faculty and staff, develops strategic program structures, and ensures alignment with culturally responsive education and El Sistema values. She also manages program evaluation, volunteer engagement, and grant reporting—playing a pivotal role in sustaining and expanding the organization's impact.
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With a Master’s degree in Arts Management from American University and a Bachelor’s in Music Business from Oklahoma City University, Aubrey brings a blend of artistic passion and operational expertise to her work. Her career spans leadership roles at the Durham Arts Council and the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, where she managed large-scale educational initiatives serving thousands of students and educators. Beyond her professional work, she continues her commitment to the arts as a violist and outreach coordinator with the Durham Medical Orchestra. Aubrey’s work exemplifies a deep commitment to equity in arts access and the transformative power of creative education.
• American University- M. A.
• Oklahoma City University- B. M.
• Oklahoma Youth Orchestras
• Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women
• Durham Medical Orchestra
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, dedication, and a deep passion for both music and the children I serve—earning my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Arts Management has been incredibly rewarding and instrumental in helping me thrive in this industry.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was to stay in school and work hard—because with dedication and effort, you can achieve great things.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to believe in yourself—you are truly capable of achieving whatever you set your mind to.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and also the greatest opportunity—in my field right now is staying focused while making sure I give every child who comes my way the attention, care, and support they deserve.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Working hard and staying focused are the values that guide me in both my work and personal life, helping me stay grounded and driven toward my goals.