Laura Segura, who has served as the executive director of MusiCares, has officially left the organization after a notable tenure of five years. This information was communicated to the staff through an internal email from Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of both the Recording Academy and MusiCares. Her departure marks a significant moment for the organization, which plays a vital role in supporting the music community through various programs and initiatives.
The memo highlighted a “key leadership transition” just before the Memorial Day weekend, announcing that Segura is “no longer with MusiCares.” It also revealed that Theresa Wolters, who has been leading the health and human services department at MusiCares, is stepping up to assume the responsibilities as the interim executive director. This transition is expected to guide MusiCares through this pivotal time, ensuring continued support for the music community.
Despite the announcement, no specific reasons or details surrounding Segura’s departure have been disclosed. Billboard reached out to both the Recording Academy and MusiCares on Saturday, May 24, seeking further clarification and comments regarding this unexpected change in leadership. The lack of information leaves many in the music industry curious about the circumstances leading to this transition.
The official leadership and staff directory on the MusiCares website has been updated, omitting Segura’s name and now listing Wolters as the interim executive director. This change reflects the organization’s commitment to transparency and swift adaptation during periods of leadership transition, ensuring that the music community remains informed about key personnel changes.
Segura was appointed executive director at MusiCares in 2020, following her previous role as vice president of membership and industry relations at the Recording Academy. Her experience and dedication have significantly contributed to the organization, especially in enhancing services and support for music professionals facing various challenges. Her leadership has had a lasting impact on the organization’s mission.
Throughout her career, Segura has been recognized for her contributions to the music industry and was honored at Billboard‘s Women in Music events, which celebrate outstanding female executives in the industry, in both 2022 and 2023. These accolades underscore her influence and commitment to advocating for the welfare of music professionals, highlighting her significant role within the community.
Recently, Segura and Wolters collaborated on a guest column for Billboard titled “Health Insurance Isn’t Enough — Music Also Needs a Financial Safety Net,” which was published in March. This piece reflects their shared commitment to advocating for the financial and health needs of those in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive support systems for artists and professionals.
Founded by the Recording Academy in 1989, MusiCares provides essential health and welfare services to the music community. This independent 501(c)(3) charity plays a crucial role in offering financial grants, support resources, and crisis relief for artists and music professionals in need. Their programs are designed to address a wide range of issues, ensuring that those in the music industry have access to the assistance they require.
Earlier this month, MusiCares announced that nearly $10 million raised for wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles during the 2025 Grammy Awards has been distributed to various recipients throughout the region. As of May 2, over $6 million was allocated to more than 3,100 music professionals in L.A., with an additional $3,969,005 directed to community-based organizations such as the California Community Foundation, Direct Relief, and the Pasadena Community Foundation. This demonstrates the organization’s commitment to supporting the broader community affected by natural disasters.
Moreover, an impressive total of $16 million was raised by MusiCares and the Recording Academy during Grammy weekend through the MusiCares Fire Relief campaign and the annual Persons of the Year gala. Of this amount, $6 million has been earmarked for long-term fire relief efforts, while the remaining $10 million will support the organization’s ongoing mission delivery throughout the year. This fundraising effort illustrates the music industry’s solidarity and commitment to helping those in need.
“What moved us most in the days following the Grammy telecast wasn’t just the scale of support, it was the spirit behind it,” Segura said in a statement on May 2. “Thousands of people gave what they could, and together, their generosity became a lifeline for those in crisis, reaching far beyond our industry. That’s why we partnered with trusted community organizations who are helping Angelenos across the region access the care, resources, and support they need to rebuild.” This statement reflects the deep connection and commitment that the music community shares, demonstrating the power of collective action in times of crisis.
