Los Angeles Children’s Chorus has named Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist and La Cañada resident Kai Ryssdal as chair of its board of directors.

Los Angeles Children’s Chorus recently embarked on a new era of leadership with board chair Kai Ryssdal. (photo courtesy of Kai Ryssdal)

LACC interim Executive Director Tom Wheatley announced the appointment of Ryssdal, who succeeds immediate past chair Cheryl Scheidemantle. Ryssdal, who has served on LACC’s board since 2014, is host and senior editor of the public radio show “Marketplace.” His tenure as LACC board chair began Aug. 1, the same day choral conductor, clinician and educator Fernando Malvar-Ruiz became LACC’s artistic director.

Malvar-Ruiz, only the third leader of LACC since its inception in 1986, succeeds Anne Tomlinson, who stepped down at the conclusion of the 2017-18 season following a 22-year tenure. One of Malvar-Ruiz’s first priorities will be to prepare the chorus for two performances of “Carmina Burana” on Aug. 28 and 30, at 8 p.m., at the Hollywood Bowl.

“Kai Ryssdal’s deep commitment to LACC, forward-thinking leadership, exceptional business acumen, considerable community building skills and tremendous passion for music and the arts will help propel the chorus forward as it begins an exciting new chapter under the artistic direction of Fernando Malvar-Ruiz,” Wheatley said. “LACC is delighted to welcome Fernando, a wonderful ambassador for LACC who will ensure that its outstanding educational programs and artistic excellence continue to flourish across a wide range of platforms, including live performance, recordings, movies, TV shows, advertising and collaborations with leading artists at the highest possible echelon.”

Ryssdal joined the flagship “Marketplace” broadcast in 2005. He speaks regularly with CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, U.S. presidents, startup entrepreneurs, small business owners and everyday participants in the American and global economies.

“This is going to be an incredibly exciting year for LACC as we welcome Fernando and build on Anne’s remarkable tenure,” Ryssdal added.

For information, call (626)793-4231, or visit lachildrenschorus.org.