Retiring Civic Music Program Director and former Board President Barbara McRoberts (left) and current Board President and Program Director Kay Conrad
BURLINGTON, IOWA (June 16, 2026) — This month, the Burlington Civic Music Association is recognizing Barb “Babs” McRoberts for her extraordinary contributions to the organization following twenty years of dedicated service on its board of directors, including fifteen years as program director and twelve years as board president.
McRoberts joined the Burlington Civic Music Association board in July 2006, shortly after returning to Burlington following a fifty-year absence. Encouraged by friends and family to come home to the city she loved, she quickly found a new way to serve the community through the performing arts.
“I met so many eager, committed people who were devoted to the live performing arts,” McRoberts said of her first board meeting.
“I was looking forward to being involved in Burlington.”
McRoberts brought with her extensive professional experience in arts administration. Before moving back to Burlington, she served as executive director of the Des Moines Ballet and oversaw dance presentations at the Des Moines Civic Center. During that time, she worked with some of the world’s most celebrated dancers, including Mikhail Baryshnikov and Rudolf Nureyev.
“My first experience was Baryshnikov,” McRoberts recalled. “At the time, he was as popular as Beyoncé is today.” She added with characteristic humor, “I didn’t know a ‘scrim’ from a scrimmage, but I learned by experience.”
Under McRoberts’ leadership, Burlington Civic Music underwent significant growth and transformation.
The organization embraced the identity of “Live Music on the River,” expanded its marketing efforts through social media, launched its first website, and began offering single-ticket sales besides traditional season subscriptions.
McRoberts served as board president from 2009 to 2021 and as program director from 2011 to June 2026.
During her tenure, the association strengthened its education outreach efforts, expanded its presence at regional and national booking conferences, and became a member of the Iowa Presenters Association. She also completed booking the association’s 2026-2027 season before stepping down from her programming role.
“The program director position requires someone with professional experience and training who’s willing to work irregular hours and face challenges,” McRoberts said.
“What was significant was that I brought a love of the live and lively arts and a passion for presenting fine artists and ensembles to Burlington and the surrounding area, drawing on my training and experience.”
Current Burlington Civic Music Association Board President Kay Conrad praised McRoberts’ enduring impact on the organization.
“Barb’s vision, dedication and expertise have helped shape Burlington Civic Music into the vibrant organization it is today,” Conrad said.
“Her commitment to bringing outstanding live performances to our community has enriched the cultural life of Burlington for two decades. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and the solid foundation she leaves for future generations.”
Through changing times and evolving audiences, McRoberts remained steadfast in her belief in the power of live performance to inspire, educate and bring communities together. Her efforts have ensured that Burlington audiences continue to experience exceptional artists and ensembles close to home.
Conrad will assume the duties of program director while continuing to serve as board president.
The Burlington Civic Music Association extends its heartfelt appreciation to Barb McRoberts for her years of service, leadership, and dedication to the performing arts.
About Burlington Civic Music Association
Founded in 1929, the Burlington Civic Music Association presents high-quality live performances for audiences throughout southeast Iowa and west-central Illinois. Through its concert series and education outreach initiatives, the association remains committed to enriching the community through the performing arts under its banner, “Live Music on the River.”
