Cavaliers Arts, Performance & Education Welcomes Robert Baker-Hargrove as CEO
ROSEMONT, IL – Cavaliers Arts, Performance & Education, Inc. is pleased to share the appointment of Robert Baker-Hargrove in the newly created role of Chief Executive Officer. As the organization enters its 76th year of existence, Robert is charged with leading CAPE through a transitional phase to shape the future by establishing a long-term leadership and operational model, and spearheading financial growth. A dedicated member of CAPE’s Board of Directors since 2021, Robert brings a wealth of professional experience from various sectors including non-profit, entertainment, pageantry, and business consulting.“We are delighted to welcome Robert as CEO. His deep experience driving organizational transformation as well as leading the startup and growth of non-profit organizations positions him well to advance our strategy, growth, and culture initiatives. I look forward to working with him, in partnership with our leadership team and staff, to continue strengthening our organization and setting the course for CAPE's next 75 years,” says CAPE President Dale Young.
Robert Baker-Hargrove earned his Bachelor of Science in textile sciences from the University of Texas at Austin in 1993, and later received a Master of Business Administration from Webster University in 2000. He is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of BHC Assessment and Consulting, a people-centric firm focused on coaching, leadership development, and consulting work. BHC provides business and leadership coaching and strategic planning, while focusing primarily on culture, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Prior to starting BHC, Robert was the Co-CEO and COO of 26Health, an integrated health services provider offering primary care and mental health services to LGBTQ+ and ally communities in Orlando. Robert co-created the roadmap that grew the agency from its inception to projected 2023 revenues of $100M. He worked to define the enterprise governance framework, secured critical seed funding and ongoing support, and negotiated key strategic partnerships with Mistr and the US Veterans Administration that greatly extended 26Health’s reach.
Robert Baker-Hargrove performing with The Cavaliers in 1992 during their World Championship-winning show, 'Revolution and Triumph’
In addition to entrepreneurial work and non-profit management, Robert spent a 24-year career with The Walt Disney Company. His work there included being a proprietor, a producer, resource manager, choreographer, and production manager for numerous new shows, parades, and special events for Walt Disney Entertainment and Disney Cruise Line. Robert’s pageantry experience also includes Drum Corps International: he marched with the World Champion Cavaliers in 1992, and taught DCI Finalist Boston Crusaders in 2005 and 2006. He’s served as a movement instructor and dance and design consultant for numerous winter guards and high school bands, color guards, and dance teams.
Robert shared his enthusiasm for this new position, stating “Stepping into the CEO role with CAPE is an incredible honor. I look forward to leading, motivating, and empowering CAPE’s staff and members in this new capacity.”
Robert has been the recipient of several awards and accolades, including the Marquis Who’s Who Champion of Progress for Q2 2022, Fortune Magazine 2022 Top Professionals, and other humanitarian and business designations. He resides in Orlando, Florida with his spouse Dr. David Baker-Hargrove and their daughter Whitney.
Robert will be working alongside current Executive Director Monte Mast as part of CAPE’s transition plan. We look forward to a bright future under Robert’s strong leadership.