Isabelle Tuncer, Executive Director of El Sistema Santa Cruz/Pajaro Valley, has been an active contributor to Santa Cruz County for over 20 years. Originally from France, Isabelle settled in Santa Cruz two decades ago, bringing a solid background in international trade, development, and project management. Recognizing the value of accessible music education, she founded El Sistema Santa Cruz/Pajaro Valley and has led the organization since its inception, developing it into a program that supports and uplifts young people across the region.
A former Fulbright Scholar, Isabelle holds a JD from Université d’Aix-Marseille and an MA in Commercial Diplomacy from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies. Her professional experience includes roles with the Agricultural Economics Research Institute in Turkey and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development in Switzerland. Locally, she is involved with the Santa Cruz Sister Cities Committee and Equity Committee of the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission. Isabelle’s focus on community and youth development through education and cultural exchange has made her a respected figure in Santa Cruz County.
As Executive Director of El Sistema Santa Cruz/Pajaro Valley, I have witnessed the profound impact of music education on youth in our community, particularly in collaboration with our local school district. Working closely with educators and district leaders has allowed me to tailor programming to meet specific community needs, integrate music education into school curricula, and ensure access for students who benefit most. Serving on the El Sistema USA board would allow me to share this experience in navigating school partnerships and expanding community alliances. I am eager to contribute to strategies that broaden El Sistema’s reach, strengthen partnerships, and enhance program quality to inspire social change through music across the network.
