Nicolas Gonzalez currently serves as the Assistant Vice President for Strategic Innovation and Special Initiatives at Manhattan School of Music, operating within the Office of the President. In this capacity, he leads the School’s cultural inclusion (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) initiatives, oversees the strategic plan, and manages special projects. Nicolas's work is dedicated to fostering an environment of collaboration, lifelong learning, and openness across all divisions of the School. This can be seen in this collaboration with HR on professional development for Directors, improving the structure and leadership of the student identity organizations, deepening local and nationwide scholarship and engagement with pathway programs, and creating panel events on social issues in music with each of the artistic deans. Working with students, faculty, and staff, he advances the School’s mission by facilitating opportunities for diverse learning, interactive performance, and community and national partnerships.With a foundation rooted in an intercultural mindset, Nicolas is dedicated to arts innovation and ensuring that the arts are accessible to all. He employs critical, reflective thinking to drive socially responsible action and strongly emphasizes community-centric programming. As a leader, he practices value-based leadership, which sets the foundation for his vision and actions.Nicolas is a member of the Sphinx LEAD cohort and is actively involved in his industry and local community. He serves as Board Chair for Sound Mind, an initiative to end the stigma of mental illness in classical music. He previously served on committees for Stamford Pride, Connecticut Office of the Arts, Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, El Sistema USA, and the League of American Orchestras. He is currently on faculty for Teaching Artists International. His extensive experience spans roles at esteemed institutions such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Boston University Tanglewood Institute, and the National Repertory Orchestra. Nicolas holds a comprehensive educational background, including an MA in Arts Administration, MPA in Nonprofit Management, and BA in Film Production with certifications in Music Education and Business, all earned from Indiana University. Other certifications include Philanthropic Studies from the Lilly School of Philanthropy, DEI Practitioner from Sarah Jane Academy, Global Awareness from MIT, and Facilitative Leadership with the Institute for Social Change.