Dr. Nicha Stapanukul is a creative leader, educator, and community builder whose work brings together thoughtful artistry and community impact. A first-generation immigrant from Thailand, she moved to the United States at age 14 to pursue greater opportunities for arts education, a journey that continues to shape her value of the arts.

As the inaugural Director of Learning at LACO, Nicha leads the development of a dynamic new department dedicated to expanding access to music through in-school residencies, professional development, standards-aligned curriculums, and strategic partnerships. 

Prior to joining LACO, Nicha served as Director of Education and Community Engagement at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, where she led a department-wide rebrand, revitalized audience engagement, and expanded programming post-pandemic to reach over 30,000 people annually. 

Nicha has held additional leadership roles in the nonprofit and education sectors, and has served on the boards of ArtMix, ChamberFest Brown County, and the Indiana Music Teachers Association. Her work is shaped by more than a decade of teaching, performing, and presenting at conferences across the U.S. and five continents. Her leadership is grounded in deep listening, a commitment to equity and access in the arts, a belief that the arts can build bridges across cultures, generations, and identities. 

A classically trained pianist, Nicha holds a Doctor of Music in Music Literature and Performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music with minors in music education, arts administration, and collaborative piano. 

When not championing the arts, Nicha enjoys crafting, exploring the outdoors with her husband and pup, trying to make her thumb green, and finding ways to spend time with friends and connect with her community.