James Pennington, Development Coordinator
James Pennington is a fundraiser, grant writer and arts advocate who brings over a decade of nonprofit experience to Chesapeake Arts Center. His previous professional experience includes Harmony Foundation International, Barbershop Harmony Society and Chorus America. From 2021-24, he held the role of development coordinator at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis, where he led their grants program through the process of rebuilding from the impact of COVID closures. Through that experience he came to know the vibrant, resilient arts community in Anne Arundel County that he once again serves at CAC. Prior to his career in the arts, James' background was in journalism as a sports writer, covering men's and women's college basketball for several local and national publications. He is an alumnus of the University of Kentucky.
James is a product of a lifelong performing arts and choral music education, and he remains active as a performer, clinician and arranger. He is the baritone of Secret Best Friends, a vocal quartet that blends influences from modern barbershop harmony and vocal jazz. The group placed 7th at the Barbershop Harmony Society international quartet competition in July 2026. He is also a certified judge for quartet and chorus competitions, traveling across the world to adjudicate, educate and inspire ensembles to bring the trust version of themselves to audiences. He lives in Annapolis with his wife, daughter and two cats.