Coastal Concerts holds volunteer appreciation reception

Gathered at the Coastal Concerts volunteer reception are in back (l-r) Rachel Swick, Daniel Bruner, John Kujawski, Veronica Ciraulo, Lee April, Peter Zoll, Ellen Crockett, Janet Mahoney, Denise Emery, Brian Mahoney, Lani Spahr, Matt Wade, Ross Peddicord and Bill Wolff. In front are Annemarie Kujawski, Marcy Berman, Pam Malsch, Kristi Loverde, Maureen Sheriden and Lynn Godino. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The Coastal Concerts Volunteer Ambassador of the Year Award was presented to Matthew Wade. Shown are (l-r) Carol Dennis, outgoing executive director; Wade; Lee April, board president; and Ross Peddicord, new executive director.

Coastal Concerts representative Rachel Mavity, left, presents Carol Dennis, outgoing executive director, with a proclamation from Gov. Matt Meyer acknowledging her years of service and leadership to the arts and the State of Delaware.

July 1, 2026

Event Date:

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 09:22 am

Coastal Concerts celebrated its dedicated volunteers during a June 6 reception at the Virden Center in Lewes.

The event recognized the invaluable contributions of volunteer ambassadors who help make the organization's performances, educational programs and community outreach initiatives possible.

“With only a part-time staff of three people, we rely on our volunteers to truly serve as working board members and to assist in all aspects of our productions,” said Lee April, board president. “Our volunteers assist with productions, patron services, outreach activities, programming, marketing, special events and educational activities. It is truly a team effort and includes a broad swath of the Lewes and Sussex County community.”

The 2026 Volunteer Ambassador of the Year Award was presented to Matthew Wade in recognition of his outstanding service, commitment and support of Coastal Concerts.

“Matthew exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that is so important to our organization,” said April. “Matt not only has helped us the last five years, but after retiring as a global software salesman, also donates his time to Village Volunteers, the [Code Purple] emergency winter shelter program at St. Jude and cleanup efforts on Beaver Dam Road, and is an active member of the Elks Lodge.”

Wade said he particularly admires the blend of world-class talent at Coastal Concerts performances and the intimate audience that defines the classical music series. “You get some fantastically talented musicians who are playing for a limited audience of small-town folks. It’s quite remarkable," Wade said.

The event also honored Carol Dennis, who recently concluded an accomplished eight-year tenure as executive director of Coastal Concerts. She was presented with a proclamation from Gov. Matt Meyer for her service and leadership to the arts community and the State of Delaware.

Ross Peddicord, incoming executive director, welcomed volunteers and guests, and expressed his appreciation for the dedicated individuals whose service supports every aspect of the organization’s work.