Board of Directors

2022- 2023 Board of Directors

 

Shannon Jones, President

Retired from a career with King Soopers, Shannon has seen the benefits that a music education has given his two sons who participated in CSYSA. A one time volunteer for School District 11, Shannon is also on the board of the Vintage Car Club of America, Pikes Peak region. 

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Jim Mahoney, Vice President

Consultant and Trainer, International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), Retired Academy School District #20 Administrator and music consumer.

 

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Richard Wood, Treasurer

Rich is a local attorney in private practice whose experience in community service includes ten years as a Cubmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster in the Boy Scouts of America as well as serving on the Board of Directors of Care and Share Food Bank, the Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado, and the District 20 Education Foundation.  Rich is an avid patron and supporter of the local arts, a season subscriber with the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and TheatreWorks, a music lover, a very bad strummer of simple guitar chords, and an even worse singer.

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Melissa Foster, Secretary

A retired career educator in both elementary and secondary schools, and is a committed advocate for music education and performance experiences for young people. She is a trustee with the Palmer Land Trust, is a committed community participant and is active in her church.

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Ellie Bontrager

Music lover and parent of two CSYSA alumni. She also coordinates the Limon Community blood drive.

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Joe Cole

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Cindy Fesgen

A retired D20 elementary principal of an arts integration school, Cindy believes in the power of music education. She is a painter, poet, and singer who enjoys being a part of the creative Colorado Springs community. She continues to serve children as a lunch lady and substitute teacher.

 

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Gary Foote
Outreach Committee Chair, moved to the Springs following a NYC career in marketing/ new product development with Lever Brothers, Clairol, and global confectioner Ferrero. Gary sings in the Broadmoor Community Church Choir.

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Nancy Pittman

Nancy is a past CSYSA board president, past president of Philharmonic Guild and a community volunteer.

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Stephen Hock

Retired music educator (Band, Choir, Orchestra) in School Districts #11, #20, and #38) for 53 years in the Pikes Peak Region. Presently on the music staff of First Presbyterian Church, Colorado Springs. Past member of the Colorado Springs Symphony and the Pueblo Symphony. Interest include cycling, fly fishing, hiking, reading and travel. Lives in Palmer Lake with wife, Carolyn.

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Cheryl Schwartz

Grew up in St. Louis, has lived in Colorado Springs since 1990. Avid bridge player, amateur singer and serial board member. Raised 2 children who were both involved in music. Active in the Arts community. Now enjoys spending time with the grandchildren and keeping busy.

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David Schwartz

Raised in NYC, David came to love the performing and visual arts at an early age.  He and Cheryl have been strong supporters of many local arts organizations since the early 90’s.  Their son played with CSYSA; their daughter sang with Children’s Chorale.  Now, retired from medical practice, David continues to stay busy with family, friends, music, theater, and stuff. 

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Purvi Sittner, Parent Council Chair

Spending much of her adult life on the East Coast, Purvi has a passion for the arts and especially sees the importance of the arts in education.  She currently has two musicians in CSYSA and believes that parent support is crucial to the success of the organization.  Purvi has worked in finance and accounting for 20 years primarily for non-profit organizations.

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Keven Stewart, Executive Director (non-voting)

Gary Nicholson, Music Director (non-voting)