Mai Abe

Director of Thurnauer School of Music
Thurnauer School of Music

Education

BA in International Relations, ICU, Tokyo
MA in Non-Profit Arts Management, NYU

Quick Facts

  • Yes, I am 4' 10"
  • Played women's soccer in college
  • Graduated from a pre-college Music School

Mai brings to the Kaplen JCC a wealth of experience and an extensive professional background in business strategy, operations and marketing communications. She is a NYC-based ad agency-bred brand strategist and operations leader with a knack for increasing awareness, maximizing an organization’s potential, honing efficiencies and ensuring that the mission and values are fully represented in the core proposition. 

After working in the for-profit arena for decades, Mai made the shift to the non-profit world, focusing on healthcare and social services. Before starting at the Kaplen JCC, Mai spent 10+ years immersed and active in the JCC world across the country as a staff member, consultant, parent, board member, and/or committee member. 

Mai is a strong believer in arts education and the immense impact a music school can play in a child’s development. She started playing piano at age 5 and is a graduate of a pre-college music school. Her two children are both former Thurnauer students. She is proud to work with the Thurnauer staff and faculty to bring joy and pride to all students who embark on a musical journey at the Thurnauer School of Music.

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