Kiran Shelat, Executive Director
Kiran Shelat has held the position of Executive Director since 2016. Under Ms. Shelat’s leadership, Classics 4 Kids has made tremendous strides through increased grant funding, added staff positions, growth in programs, and increased community outreach and partnerships. For the past 15 years, Kiran has served in numerous leadership roles with a deep understanding of nonprofit management and philanthropy through positions at The American Red Cross, Jewish Family Services, Senior Services of Northern Kentucky, and the World Affairs Council of Greater Cincinnati. Kiran was a finalist for the 40 Next Top Business Leaders Under 40 Awards and the 2023 Businesswomen of the Year from the San Diego Business Journal. In addition, Classics 4 Kids was awarded Outstanding Social Responsibility for San Diego Business Journal’s Nonprofit Awards & Citizenship Awards 2022.
In addition to her Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Studies from Northern Kentucky University, she has attained certificates in Nonprofit Management, Human Resource Management, and Leadership Development from the University of the Pacific. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the San Diego World Affairs Council and assists their efforts to educate and engage San Diegans on global issues, foreign policy, and international relations.
Born in London, England, Kiran moved to Louisville, Kentucky at a young age. She fell in love with nonprofits during a college internship at The World Affairs Council of Greater Cincinnati. She quickly developed a deep passion and started her career in the nonprofit sector which catapulted her career. She enjoys traveling, being a foodie, and spending time with family in her spare time.
Dana Zimbric, Artistic Director and Conductor
Dana Zimbric has served an instrumental role with Classics 4 Kids since 2002. As a regionally recognized expert in music education, Ms. Zimbric has presented at the Association of California Symphony Orchestra’s Annual Conference on curriculum based-educational programming and received the 2021 California Music Educators Association’s – Music Industry Leadership Award. Her High School Alma Mater in Rockford, Michigan inducted Mrs. Zimbric into their Foundation’s Hall of Fame in 2014 for her work as a conductor in the field of classical music.
As guest conductor, Ms. Zimbric has led the San Diego Symphony, San Diego State University Symphony Orchestra and various Honor Orchestras for the San Diego Unified School District, including the High School Honor Orchestra.
Previously, Ms. Zimbric has held conducting positions with Orchestra Nova San Diego, San Diego Youth Symphony, Avanti (Youth) Chamber Orchestra, and the University of Wisconsin Chamber and Symphony Orchestras.
She is also a frequent coach, judge, and guest conductor at festivals and schools throughout southern California. In addition to her work with Classics 4 Kids, Zimbric is also the Artistic Director and Conductor of the California Chamber Orchestra in Temecula, CA. Mrs. Zimbric holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Wisconsin and a Master of Music in Orchestral Conducting from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
Corrine Huber, Program Manager
Corrine Huber brings years of experience in organizational development, program coordination and partnership management to Classics 4 Kids. As the Program Manager, she works diligently to expand the Classics 4 Kids in school workshops program and takes the lead on providing thousands of students virtual music education opportunities to schools across San Diego County. Ms. Huber regularly attends the San Diego Office of Education – Arts Education Resource Organization (AERO) meetings.
She moved to San Diego from Richmond, Virginia, she worked for the small nonprofit Conexus Vision for four years as a core member of the programs team. Corrine attended school at James Madison University earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. In high school she was also an active member of the marching band, and strongly believes in the value of music in shaping and enriching the education experience. She brings a passion for helping others and her community.
Kelly Makley, Development Manager
Kelly Makley oversees the organization’s fundraising endeavors through grant research, writing, and submission, ensuring the continuous pursuit of funding opportunities to sustain and expand programs while. She also manages aspects of fundraising events such as the Annual Gala, and supports Classics 4 Kids’ communications needs through media relations and special projects. She has managed communications, fundraising, community partnerships and special events for a variety of nonprofits in the music, environmental and research sectors. In her most recent position at Recreational Music Center, she guided the overall strategies for messaging including mass emails, social media, annual reports, press releases, graphics, and website development. Ms. Makley attended UC San Diego and Florida Atlantic University. She is a music enthusiast and is dedicated to Classics 4 Kids’ mission to inspire children through the experience of music.
Shannon Rodriguez, Administrative & Outreach Coordinator
Shannon Rodriguez is instrumental in streamlining Classics 4 Kids’ operations and expanding community outreach initiatives. With 5 years of administrative experience and 3 years in education, Ms. Rodriguez brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role. As an educator for the Chula Vista Elementary School District, she is deeply committed to empowering students and families through education, community, and music.
Ms. Rodriguez excels in communication, program management, and community engagement. She is excited to leverage her skills to strengthen our connections with diverse communities and ensure the smooth running of our programs. With an an A.A. in Communications and a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies, she is currently pursuing a Masters in Education. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending quality time with loved ones, indulging in musicals and concerts, and savoring delicious meals.