The story still unfolds: Cydney Nunn’s ongoing journey

Personal photo courtesy of Cydney Nunn

by Erinn Gardner

Community-oriented. Poised. Empathetic. Driven. These are just a few adjectives to describe Cydney Nunn, a leader who strives to make the world feel seen and heard, whether this be as a CBS news producer or as the managing director of the Ruth Williams Opera House. 

Though she is still tailoring her “why,” Nunn’s trajectory has been shaped by her upbringing in Atlanta. Her father, a notable actor, and her mother, a fine arts nonprofit owner, instilled in her a unique skillset that allows Nunn to thrive in her career today. Her high-caliber stage presence, verbal articulation, appreciation for the arts, and willingness to help others is simply in her blood. 

College days and beyond 

It only made sense for Nunn to attend Syracuse University as a Communications major. Though not her passion, she knew this was something she could excel at. 

“I learned how to use my words, and that’s what I’ve used to carry me through my career professionally,” Nunn said. 

After graduating, she went on to work in Pittsburgh for the next decade. As the only Black CBS news producer, Nunn sharpened her skills, but simultaneously found it monotonous. Not only did she sacrifice her nights and weekends to work, but there was minimal room for personality and expression. 

Nunn then found a light at the end of the tunnel. She pivoted, carrying her journalism skillset to become the public relations manager at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, where she had insider news information, contacts, and experience writing press releases. She eventually went on to be the director of communications at the esteemed nonprofit. The center strives to preserve and celebrate the culture and history of people of African descent throughout the world. It was this career that brought her closer to community-centered work.

Cydney Nunn engages in her work at the August Wilson Cultural Center.

A new chapter 

However, Pittsburgh was not her long-term home. It was a slice of her life that was only a chapter in her story.

Nunn branched out to Los Angeles, where she consulted and explored new opportunities. Shortly after, she was contacted by the Ruth Williams Opera House to pursue the managing director role.

Everything seemed to come full circle. The fruits of her labor had paid off, and the pieces of this life puzzle were finally being put together. All of the miscellaneous skills she had acquired over the years, persistence, and love for the arts and her community finally brought her where she was supposed to be. 

“Everything happens for a reason. Some of the biggest lessons are when you lose. You just have to keep going and know that it is going to work out,” Nunn said. “Even if it’s the last thing you wanted to happen, that was exactly the way it was supposed to happen.” 

A light at the end of the tunnel 

Though Nunn never envisioned herself engaging in mission-driven philanthropic work, the tangible impact of her work is undeniable. The most rewarding aspect of her job is being a hub, a vessel, and an anchor in the Bayview community. It keeps her going even on exhausting days when work feels heavy.

“I love that we are a platform for emerging artists from this neighborhood. From a community aspect, we are a safe place where people feel comfortable bringing their children, families,” Nunn said. “We recently had a townhall with the mayor, so I love that we can kind of be that bridge between the higher ups and the underserved.” 

 For Cydney Nun, the story is still unfolding, and she is embracing every chapter along the way. She views her journey as a constant evolution, where she is continuously finding her calling.

“I think that I’m still understanding my ‘why’,” Nunn said. “I’m still in the midst of my career journey. I’m young, new to this area, and still learning what makes me tick.”