Rochelle Rafn

executive director

Rochelle is a lifelong Oregonian and native to the Salem area. Music has always been a focal point throughout her life. Her love for classical music started at the age of 4 when her parents enrolled her in ballet lessons. Although she did not pick up the violin until she was 9, it came very naturally to her. She was eager to not only dance to Tchaikovsky’s music, but to also play it. Rochelle graduated from McNary High School in Keizer, OR where she was the concertmaster of the orchestra. After high school she took a break from playing for nearly 10 years. Although sad to have lost so many years, she is glad to have this passion back in her life and vows to never quit again.

Rochelle received her MBA and also a Master’s in Data Science from Willamette University, graduating with honors. She also became even more invested in her community as a local, downtown business owner and community musician. She and husband, Nate Rafn, co-owned Rafns’ Restaurant where she managed the front of house, branding and marketing, finance, bookkeeping and public relations. Rochelle has also been involved with several other orchestras and musicals in town including the Salem Pops Orchestra, Salem Philharmonia Orchestra, Salem Symphony, Western Oregon University Symphony, Pentacle Theater and Enlightened Theatrics. In the past she served on the board of directors for the Salem Philharmonia Orchestra and currently is a director on the board for Travel Salem as well as Salem Harvest. Rochelle is excited about Salem’s growth and can’t wait to bring her experience to this organization. “I look forward to combining my passion for music and my community with this organization.”

Aside from her classical life, Rochelle also enjoys singing and dancing. She is adventurous and loves to travel. Keeping an active lifestyle centered around the outdoors including; hiking, rafting and cycling is also essential to her quality of life.