2026 Annual Conference Speakers
Click on the speaker names to learn more about them.
Speakers and facilitators are subject to change.
Breakout Session Speakers
Tara Aesquivel
Founder & Principal, Tara Aesquivel Consulting
Tara helps arts leaders create clarity and bandwidth to focus on vision and impact. From long-term planning to operations analysis, Tara helps clients streamline and clarify the best use of limited resources. With 15 years of experience in nonprofit arts management and event production, Tara Aesquivel uses her expertise to support and embolden talented arts professionals to serve and uplift their communities. Tara brings a unique combination of formal education and on-the-ground experience to her consulting, utilizing best-practice philosophies to inform practical, effective solutions that stick. Tara works closely with clients to create specific, customized solutions to address each organization’s unique needs and goals. As an extension of her love for lifelong learning, Tara is proud to be on faculty at USC, teaching Executive Leadership in the Arts for the Thornton School of Music. Tara is a proud mom, enjoys traveling, and tends a small (but productive) garden.
Moderator: "Flash Talks: Insights from Across the Field " on Friday, August 7, 10:30 AM - 12 PM
Anne Brown
Former Executive Director (Retired), Auburn Symphony
Anne Brown served as Executive Director of the Auburn Symphony for seven seasons. The symphony experienced growth and financial stability at greater levels than in the history of the 39-year organization, expanding community offerings with several highly successful collaborations with other arts organizations and non-profits in Placer County. Anne retired in 2025 and was thrilled to be a recipient of the 2025 ACSO Executive Leadership Award. This was a capstone to her career in non-profit orchestral management, and she is seeking relevant pathways to giving back, sharing knowledge and continuing arts advocacy at the city, county and state levels.
Speaking at "Relationships Matter: Case Studies in Community-Building," on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM.
Tom Clareson
Senior Consultant/BAARN Project Director, Lyrasis/Bay Area Arts Readiness Network
Tom Clareson is Senior Consultant, Digital & Preservation Services at Lyrasis, focusing on preservation, disaster preparedness, digitization, funding, and advocacy for arts and cultural organizations. From 2017-2025 he was Project Director of Performing Arts Readiness, funded by the Mellon Foundation to help performing arts organizations protect their assets, sustain operations, and prepare for emergencies. In 2024, he began as Project Director for the Bay Area Arts Readiness Network, funded by the Hewlett Foundation. Clareson is Secretary, Board of Directors for the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation, and Chair, National Council of Advisors, Richard M. Ross Art Museum, Ohio Wesleyan University.
Speaking at "Ensuring Your Artistic Legacy: Navigating ”Administrative Disasters” in the Arts Sector" on Thursday, August 6, 10:15-11:30 AM.
Lisa Dell
Executive Director, California Symphony
Lisa Dell serves as Executive Director of the California Symphony, an orchestra known for its engaging, story-driven performances. Her visionary leadership has propelled California Symphony beyond pre-pandemic audience numbers and subscription revenue, while introducing new concert experiences. She has amplified the orchestra’s presence through multiple regional and national radio series that spotlight commissioned works from its composer residency, and she has broadened community access with new and expanded education initiatives. Drawing on two decades of experience in arts marketing and public relations, Lisa crafts bold strategies that elevate California Symphony’s profile, deepen audience connection, and fuel lasting growth.
Speaking at "Inside the Season Build: A Live Artistic–Administrative Collaboration Lab " on Thursday, August 6, 10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Anne Huang
Chief Executive Officer, World Arts West
Dr. Anne Huang is a seasoned cultural arts executive and advocate. As the CEO of World Arts West and a thought leader with deep knowledge of challenges and solutions for cultural artists in the 21st century, she has presented for Grantmakers in the Arts, National Association of Latino Arts & Culture, Northern California Grantmakers, and International Association of Blacks in Dance. Dr. Huang has served in leadership roles for Dance/USA Board of Trustees and NY Foundation for the Arts' Immigrant Artist Program. She is a current Board Member for CA for the Arts, the largest arts advocacy organization in California.
Speaking at "Ensuring Your Artistic Legacy: Navigating ”Administrative Disasters” in the Arts Sector " on Thursday, August 6, 10:15-11:30 AM
Sean Krissman
Former Principal Clarinet, San Francisco Ballet Orchestra
Sean Krissman served as Principal Clarinet of the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra and Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, as well as 2nd/Eb Clarinet with the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music. During his tenure at HGO, he earned a Master of Music degree from Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music under Richie Hawley. He received his Bachelor of Music degree with Highest Honors from the University of Michigan and studied extensively with Dan Gilbert, Chad Burrow, Helen Goode-Castro, and Yehuda Gilad.
Sean is currently a premedical student whose experiences with musician injury inspired his pursuit of a career in performing arts medicine.
Speaking at "Musician Injuries & How to Avoid Them" on Friday, August 7, 9:00 AM - 10:15 PM
Becky Ludkiewicz
Director, Business Development, Capacity
Becky Ludkiewicz is a Director of Business Development at Capacity, where she leverages 11 years of experience to craft data-driven strategies for arts organizations. She has served as lead strategist for over 100 organizations, including symphony orchestras of all budget sizes.
An educator at heart, Becky is an arts marketing professor at the University of Delaware, where she earned her MBA, and a frequent industry speaker. She previously worked in marketing at the New Jersey Symphony where she managed all organic social media and paid advertising within six regional markets. She's been playing the cello since age eight.
Speaking at "PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP: Building Brand Voice & Tone and Your AI Copywriting Partner " on Wednesday, August 5, 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Benjamin Pesetsky
Associate Director of Editorial & Inside Music Talks, San Francisco Symphony
Benjamin Pesetsky is Associate Director of Editorial and Inside Music Talks for the San Francisco Symphony. He also writes regularly for the Philadelphia Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony, and Melbourne Symphony, and has contributed program notes to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Houston Symphony. He previously served on the staff of the Handel and Haydn Society, and was a freelance editor and consultant for the St. Louis Symphony, Tippet Rise Art Center, and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. He holds degrees in composition and philosophy from Bard College Conservatory and Bard College.
Speaking at "Why Program Notes? Cultivating Close Listeners Through Writing" on Saturday, August 8, 10:30-11:45 AM
Stephen Salts
Director of Learning & Youth Programs, San Diego Symphony
Stephen is the Director of Learning & Youth Programs at San Diego Symphony and a proud ACSO board member. He oversees San Diego Symphony's dynamic and impactful programming for youth and families, including the sensory friendly Symphony Kids Series, the Family Concert Series, a robust elementary school program, school and community open rehearsals, and collegiate masterclasses. Stephen holds degrees from Florida State University, California State University - Long Beach, and Royal Holloway - University of London, and is a vocalist and choral conductor alongside his administrative career.
Speaking at "Building Relevance, Connection, and Community through Early Childhood & Youth Programming for Orchestras" on Saturday, August 8, 10:30-11:45 AM.
Andrew Tremblay
Director of Orchestra Personnel, San Francisco Symphony
Andrew Tremblay is Director of Orchestra Personnel for the San Francisco Symphony, where he oversees musician hiring, auditions, CBA compliance, and day-to-day operations for the orchestra. He previously held roles with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops, and also worked with the Spoleto Festival USA Orchestra and at The Boston Conservatory. He proudly serves as a board member of the International Pride Orchestra. Andrew is committed to advancing musician wellness, including initiatives that support hearing health, physical sustainability, and a positive, respectful workplace culture.
Speaking at "Musician Injuries & How to Avoid Them" on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM
Sarah Weber
Executive Director, Association of California Symphony Orchestras
Caroline Bamforth
President-Elect & Treasurer, Sacramento Master Singers
Caroline Bamforth is an event planner, arts administrator, and performer. In addition to her role as Conference and Programs Manager with ACSO, where she has worked for 18 years, she serves as Events and Programs Manager for the Department of Viticulture & Enology at University of California, Davis. Caroline holds a BA in Music from UC Davis, a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Arts Education from California State University, Sacramento, is a Certified Meeting Professional and holds her Certificate in Meeting Management. Caroline is a singer and board member for the Sacramento Master Singers, a high-caliber community choir. During her ten years on the board she has played an active role in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and financial stewardship. Her work includes strengthening fundraising efforts, improving audience engagement strategies, and supporting long-term planning to ensure the organization’s continued growth and relevance.
Speaking at "Ensuring Your Artistic Legacy: Navigating ”Administrative Disasters” in the Arts Sector " on Thursday, August 6, 10:15-11:30 AM.
Corinne Byrd
Board Member, Santa Rosa Symphony
Corinne Byrd is an award-winning marketing communications professional with over three decades’ experience in advertising, branding, and strategic communications. She is the former president of a Houston advertising and PR firm and served as Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Zig Ziglar Corporation. Corinne has led campaigns for multimillion-dollar organizations and earned national recognition from Walter Cronkite for public relations excellence. She is co-owner & CAO of Elkins Holdings LLC and a Board Member and Past Chair of the Santa Rosa Symphony. She brings a passion for the arts and expertise supporting donor engagement, fundraising, and long-term organizational growth.
Speaking at "10 Tools to Optimize Your Website and Improve Marketing and Fundraising Outcomes" on Saturday, August 8, 10:30 - 11:45 AM.
Liane Curtis
President, AFM Local 6
Kale Cumings serves as the President of Musicians' Union Local 6, bringing his dedication to workers’ rights to a career as a professional trumpet player. A union member since his first paid gig at 16, Kale represents Bay Area performers in local contract negotiations and at the state-level as President of the Professional Musicians of California. When not at the bargaining table or playing trumpet with one of Northern California’s many orchestras and theaters, Kale spends time with family and friends, reading philosophy, and enjoying sports.
Speaking at "Union AMA: Questions That Keep Coming Up at the Bargaining Table " on Friday, August 7, 1:00 PM -2:15 PM
Laura Goodall
Assistant Director of Development, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra
Laura is a native Angeleno and former litigator turned arts management professional. At Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Laura serves as Assistant Director of Development, partnering with senior leadership to shape fundraising strategy, with a particular focus on building support for world premiere commissions. Laura holds a Master’s Degree in Arts Management from Claremont Graduate University and has served as a strategic planning consultant for organizations including the Seattle Art Museum and AXIS Dance Company. She has written for the LA Dance Chronicle on digital technology in performance and commissioning diverse artistic voices.
Before transitioning to the arts, Laura was Counsel at WilmerHale, an internationally recognized law firm, where she represented clients in complex litigation and government enforcement actions and was honored with the firm’s Pickering Award for outstanding pro bono service. She earned her J.D. from University of Pennsylvania Law School and her B.A. from Columbia University, where she served as Executive Director of Columbia Ballet Collaborative.
Speaking at "Flash Talks: Insights from Across the Field " on Friday, August 7, 10:30 AM - 12 PM
Peter Jaffe
Music Director and Conductor
Dynamic music director and conductor of the Stockton Symphony since 1995, Peter Jaffe is renowned for his top-notch musicianship and imaginative programming. He has won accolades for his educational/outreach programs, and organizations ranging from ACSO to the Brubeck Institute and Goodwill Industries have honored him for his cultural contributions. Jaffe also conducts the Folsom Lake Symphony and frequently appears with Symphony San Jose. He has served as guest conductor across the U.S., resident conductor at the Aspen Music Festival, music director and conductor of the Auburn Symphony and Stockton Opera Association, and educator at the Conductor’s Institute of South Carolina.
Speaking at "Ensuring Your Artistic Legacy: Navigating ”Administrative Disasters” in the Arts Sector" on Thursday, August 6, 10:15 - 11:30 AM.
Francesco Lecce-Chong
Artistic & Music Director, California Symphony
American conductor Francesco Lecce-Chong has established himself as a respected leader in the orchestral world through his acclaimed performances, innovative projects, and passionate advocacy for the arts. He was appointed Music Director of two U.S. orchestras, the Eugene Symphony and the Santa Rosa Symphony, before turning 30. With those symphonies, he successfully launched several groundbreaking projects, commissioning over a dozen major orchestral works and building strong community partnerships. Now, in his eighth season leading the Santa Rosa Symphony, he has grown the orchestra’s reputation as one of the most exciting and important regional orchestras in the country.
Speaking at "Closing Plenary" on Saturday, August 8, 11:45 AM - 1:30 PM
Lev Mamuya
Publicist, LA Phil; Contributing Writer, San Francisco Symphony
Lev Mamuya is a Contributing Writer for the San Francisco Symphony and a Publicist at the Los Angeles Philharmonic. He is the former cellist of the Semiosis and Boston Public quartets and has written for The Drift, Flaunt, and San Francisco Classical Voice. He holds degrees from Harvard University and New England Conservatory.
Speaking at "Why Program Notes? Cultivating Close Listeners Through Writing" on Saturday, August 8, 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM
Laura Ritchie
Executive Director, Auburn Symphony
Laura Ritchie is an arts administrator and violist whose career reflects a dynamic balance of executive leadership and high-level performance. She currently serves as Executive Director of the Auburn Symphony, where she leads strategic planning, fundraising, and overall operations, guiding the organization’s artistic vision and deepening its impact within the community.
Previously, Laura held leadership roles at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, including Program Manager for the Technology and Applied Composition department, where she managed teams and produced innovative concerts, recording sessions, partnerships, and career development opportunities for aspiring musicians. Her administrative work is grounded in a collaborative, artist-centered approach shaped by her own performance experience.
As a violist, Laura has performed at renowned venues including Lincoln Center and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, with additional credits spanning New York’s Broadway and commercial music scenes. This dual perspective informs her leadership, allowing her to connect artistic excellence with organizational strategy. Laura holds advanced degrees in viola performance from SFCM, Queens College, and CSU Sacramento, and is committed to building vibrant, forward-thinking orchestral institutions.
Speaking at "Relationships Matter: Case Studies in Building Community" on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM
Jessica Schmidt
Principal Consultant, Orchestrate Inclusion
Jessica (she/her) is passionate about supporting performing arts organizations in becoming more equitable and inclusive places for all stakeholders. From 2012-2017, she served as Director of Education and Community Engagement at the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Since January of 2016, she has offered consulting services via Orchestrate Inclusion (orchestrateinclusion.com), serving as an external partner to orchestras and other performing arts organizations as they create and implement strategies toward greater inclusion and belonging. Her consulting and workshop clients have included over 35 orchestras, higher education institutions and other performing arts organizations. She received an MA in Arts Administration and an MBA from Southern Methodist University and completed her undergraduate education at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN where she studied horn performance and political science. She is a trained mediator and an ICF Associate Certified Coach.
Speaking at "Tools for Challenging Conversations" on Friday, August 7, 1:00-2:15 PM.
Santiago Valenzuela
Speaking at "Flash Talks: Insights from Across the Field " on Friday, August 7, 10:30 AM - 12 PM
Annelies Zijderveld
Social Media Manager, San Francisco Classical Voice
Annelies plans and publishes all social media content, working with the editorial team and executive director. She has written extensively for SFCV in the past and continues to occasionally contribute articles. For 10+ years, she has been working in digital media. Annelies has a BA in journalism from Southern Methodist University and an MFA in poetry from New England College.
Moderator at "Digital Media Across the Concert Experience: Before, During, and After" on Friday, August 8, 10:15-11:30 AM
Kate Battenfeld
Executive Director, San Diego Youth Symphony
Kate Battenfeld is the Executive Director of San Diego Youth Symphony, where she leads programs serving young musicians and families across the San Diego region. A longtime advocate for music education, she previously developed and expanded the organization’s early childhood programs, helping hundreds of young children experience music during their earliest years. Kate holds an MBA in Arts Innovation from the Global Leaders Institute and frequently presents on community-centered music education and family engagement. She believes music is a powerful tool for connection, learning, and belonging, and is committed to expanding access to high-quality music education for all children.
Speaking at "Building Relevance, Connection, and Community through Early Childhood & Youth Programming for Orchestras" on Saturday, August 8 10:30 - 11:45 AM
Donato Cabrera
Artistic Director & Conductor, California Symphony
Mexican-American conductor Donato Cabrera is the Artistic and Music Director of the California Symphony. He served as the Resident Conductor of the San Francisco Symphony and the Wattis Foundation Music Director of the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra from 2009-2016. Cabrera is one of only a handful of conductors in history who has conducted performances with the San Francisco Symphony, San Francisco Opera, and the San Francisco Ballet. He is dedicated to adventurous programming, a leading advocate for living composers and digital innovation, and is keenly focused on outreach, engagement, and programming that reflects the communities he is serving.
Speaking at "Inside the Season Build: A Live Artistic–Administrative Collaboration Lab " on Thursday, August 6, 10:15-11:30 AM.
Liane Curtis
President, Women's Philharmonic Advocacy
Speaking at "Flash Talks: Insights from Across the Field " on Friday, August 7, 10:30 AM - 12 PM
Catherine Heitz New
CEO, RSC Associates
Catherine Heitz New has spent two decades helping arts organizations grow with clarity, discipline, and a focus on the people who make the work possible. As CEO of RSC, she leads a team of seasoned practitioners advancing revenue growth and capacity building across the field. Her approach strengthens teams, delivers results, and positions organizations for long-term sustainability.
Speaking at "Building a Fundraising Board: From Expectations to Action" on Saturday, August 8, 10:30 -11:45 AM
Jessie Keller
Co-President, VP Artistic & Educational Programming; Orchestra Librarian, Southern California Philharmonic
Jessie Keller serves as the Vice President of Artistic and Educational Programs for the Southern California Philharmonic, currently stepping in to share executive leadership duties as Co-President. A cellist since the age of 11, Jessie’s lifelong musical path spans performance, education, and industry administration. Originally from New York City, she earned her music degree with a focus on theory and performance from Earlham College, where she also performed with the Whitewater Opera and Sörg Opera companies. She later completed continuing education at the Mannes College of Music and performed with New York’s Nassau Pops and the Saint Martin Symphony.
Jessie brings a rich background in the commercial music industry to the SCP board, having worked in the rental music department at Boosey & Hawkes, in master recording licensing for BMG Special Products, and in global product development for Reader’s Digest Music.
In addition to her work as the Orchestra Librarian and her time performing with the SCP cello section, Jessie chairs the Young Artists Solo Competition. She is deeply passionate about ensuring the entire audition and competition process is a fruitful, empowering, and confidence-building experience for every participant, and that the winners have a sense of community and support when they perform with the orchestra and for years after. Outside of her musical endeavors, Jessie loves to travel and enjoys spending time with her wonderful blended family of four grown kids.
Speaking at "Flash Talks: Insights from Across the Field " on Friday, August 7, 10:30 AM - 12 PM
Velma Lim
Board President, Stockton Symphony
Velma has served on the Stockton Symphony Board of Directors for 20 years and most recently served as Board President. With her experience in practicing law for 40 years representing public and private employers in a myriad of matters, she brings her expertise in employment and personnel issues to the Board. She also has led the Board in the selection process of 2 Symphony CEOs.
Speaking at "Ensuring Your Artistic Legacy: Navigating ”Administrative Disasters” in the Arts Sector on Thursday, August 6, 10:15-11:30 AM
Kathryn Martin
President & CEO, Long Beach Symphony; Next Chapter Coach
Kathryn R Martin is a catalyst for moments of transformational shift and breakthroughs. Under her leadership since 2020, The Santa Barbara Symphony is experiencing unprecedented growth in attendance, subscribers and revenue; reversing historical declines and repairing relationships with musicians and community stakeholders.
With a 30-year career leading and consulting with non-profit arts & culture organizations during times of transition and change, Kathryn was one of this country’s top professional Interim CEO’s and transition strategists; supervising, training, and coaching professional interim leaders placed in arts and culture organizations across the United States.
As an author, entrepreneur, Next Chapter Coach, and founder of The Career (Life!) Breakthrough AcademyTM Kathryn coaches successful leaders at pivotal crossroad moments; helping them break out of cycles of frustration and indecision and curate their dream scenarios.
Speaking at "Building a Fundraising Board: From Expectations to Action" on Saturday, August 8, 10:30-11:45 AM
Diana Rodriguez
Chancellor, San Bernardino Community College District
Diana Z. Rodriguez is the 16th chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District — a system that serves 20,000 students through Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Valley College, a workforce training facility, and KVCR public radio and television station.
As the chief executive officer, Chancellor Rodriguez leads the district’s educational enterprise that generates economic growth for the Inland Empire by adding more than $621 million annually to the regional economy. She is the only Latina chancellor of a community college district in Southern California upon assuming office in August 2021.
In collaboration with the SBCCD Board of Trustees, Chancellor Rodriguez has laid out four goals:
Promoting student academic and career success.
Nurturing a learning and working environment based on diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism.
Elevating the community college district’s engagement in the region.
Ensuring the district’s financial health.
Like many SBCCD students, Chancellor Rodriguez is the first in her family to achieve a college education. She is a proud graduate of Palo Verde College and a transfer student to California State University, San Bernardino, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing, a master’s degree in business administration, and another master’s degree in education. She is a doctoral candidate in Higher Educational Leadership at Northcentral University.
Chancellor Rodriguez previously served as president of San Bernardino Valley College from July 2016 through July 2021. During her tenure, SBVC faculty and staff spearheaded educational strategies to earn the campus the highest level of accreditation — among the best in California.
Chancellor Rodriguez has a long and distinguished career of more than 30 years working in higher education as a faculty member and an administrator, advocating for student success and a strong connection to the community. Before leading San Bernardino Valley College, she served as Vice President of Student Services and Interim Vice President of Academic Services at Las Positas College in the Bay Area of California and Vice President of Student Services at Palo Verde College in Blythe.
Her accomplishments have drawn several awards, including the 2018 Woman of the Year Award for the 47th Assembly District of California.
Speaking at "Relationships Matter: Case Studies in Building Community" on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM
Jeremy Stanek
Clinical Assistant Professor, Stanford University
Jeremy Stanek holds music degrees from the University of Missouri and the University of New Mexico and was a professional trumpet player until he developed focal dystonia, ending his performing career. He then chose to pursue medicine. He obtained his medical degree from the University of Missouri, internal medicine training at the Medical College of Wisconsin, residency training in physiatry at the University of Missouri, and sports medicine fellowship at Washington University. He has published several peer-reviewed journal articles and given presentations at numerous international conferences. He is currently Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopedics at Stanford University.
Speaking at "Musician Injuries & How to Avoid Them" on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM
Edmund Velasco
President, AFM Local 7
Edmund Velasco is a featured saxophone soloist with the OC Jazz Collective and leader of his own EV Jazz Quintet. He has appeared with renowned artists including Joe LaBarbera, Tony Dumas, Ron Escheté, Ruben Estrada, Mel Tormé, Eddie Daniels, and Ernie Andrews. Edmund has performed at major venues such as the Baked Potato, Catalina Bar & Grill, and international festivals including the San Jose, Manoshinos, and Funchal Jazz Festivals, as well as twice at the Playboy Jazz Festival. A longtime advocate for musicians, he has served on the Executive Board of the Orange County Musicians Association for over 20 years and became President in 2022.
Speaking at "Union AMA: Questions That Keep Coming Up at the Bargaining Table" on Friday, August 7, 1:00-2:15 PM
Tod Brody
Executive Director, Marin Symphony
Speaking at "Relationships Matter: Case Studies in Building Community" on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM
Christina Campbell
Senior Director, CCS Fundraising
Christina Campbell is Senior Director at CCS Fundraising, where she helps nonprofit organizations strengthen and grow their development programs across annual giving, campaigns, and major gifts. She partners with organizations to translate ambitious visions into actionable fundraising strategies, with a focus on building sustainable programs, deepening donor engagement, and aligning philanthropy with institutional priorities. With a comprehensive understanding of the fundraising lifecycle, Christina supports efforts ranging from establishing foundational annual giving programs to advancing campaign planning and execution, while developing pathways to cultivate and steward major donors through clear cases for support, effective moves management, and strong internal systems that drive long-term growth.
Speaking at "Building a Major Gifts Program That Performs" on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM.
Sunshine Deffner
General Manager, California Symphony
Sunshine Deffner is a Bay Area arts leader with more than 30 years of experience across Symphony, Opera, Museum, Dance, and Theatre. As General Manager — and former Acting Executive Director — of California Symphony, she leads operations, finance management, and builds community partnerships across the Diablo Valley. Her career spans the Kennedy Center, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Opera San Jose, and the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, with deep expertise in finance, fundraising, artist relations, and community engagement. A former Kennedy Center DeVos Institute fellow, Theatre Bay Area board member, and Community Service Day Steering Committee Volunteer, Sunshine brings the same collaborative spirit to civic life that defines her professional work.
Speaking at "Inside the Season Build: A Live Artistic–Administrative Collaboration Lab" on Thursday, August 6, 10:15 -11:30 AM, and Moderator: "Union AMA: Questions That Keep Coming Up at the Bargaining Table" on Friday, August 7, 1-2:15 PM.
Susan Howlett
Consultant, Speaker, Author
Susan Howlett has been raising money joyfully for 50 years, and has consulted with thousands of nonprofits just like yours. Author of Boards on Fire: Inspiring Leaders to Raise Money Joyfully, and 30-year instructor at the University of Washington, Susan speaks regularly, known for offering realistic solutions to age-old problems, delivered with humor, stories, and chocolate. And she really gets orchestras!
Speaking at "Fundraise and Friendraise through "Story-Listening"" on Friday, August 7, 1-2:15 PM
Evelyn Klatt
Chief Development & Marketing Officer, Reno Philharmonic
Evelyn Klatt joined the Reno Phil in 2016 as the Director of Marketing and through her exceptional vision and leadership, rose to her current role as Chief Development and Marketing Officer. Under her guidance, the Reno Phil’s marketing initiatives have garnered significant recognition, earning numerous accolades, including multiple Gold American Advertising Awards and NCET’s Technology Non-Profit of the Year. Prior to her time with the Phil, she served as the Creative Director at Innerwest Advertising. Evelyn leads a multifaceted development department and oversees all communications and marketing efforts, ensuring that the Reno Phil’s initiatives resonate with the community and beyond.
Speaking at "Digital Media Across the Concert Experience: Before, During, and After" on Thursday, August 6, 10:15 -11:30 AM
Ruyi Lu
Senior Vice President, CCS Fundraising
Ruyi Lu is a Senior Vice President at CCS Fundraising, where she has worked since 2013, partnering with mission-driven organizations across sectors to navigate complex philanthropic landscapes with strategic clarity and cultural nuance. Her approach is shaped by a global perspective, informed by early experience at The Juilliard School, where she cultivated international donor relationships and supported efforts that contributed to the establishment of The Tianjin Juilliard School, as well as her academic work as a Fulbright Scholar focused on social enterprise in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing. Bringing a global, regional, and local lens to her client partnerships, Ruyi helps organizations articulate their goals, build strong donor relationships, and design forward-looking fundraising strategies grounded in cultural context, intentional design, and a holistic view of impact across sectors and borders.
Speaking at "Building a Major Gifts Program That Performs" on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM
Alicia Mastromonaco
Contributing Writer, Program Notes, San Francisco Symphony
San Francisco native Alicia Mastromonaco is an in-demand horn player who holds positions in groups throughout the Bay Area. She also frequently plays extra horn with the San Francisco Symphony and San Francisco Opera.
In addition to her work as a horn player, Alicia has a PhD in musicology. She writes program notes and gives preconcert talks for the San Francisco Symphony as well as other orchestras. Alicia teaches at Sonoma State University. When she is not playing or writing about music, Alicia enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, and two cats in the El Cerrito Hills.
Speaking at "Why Program Notes? Cultivating Close Listeners Through Writing " on Saturday, August 8, 10:30-11:45 AM.
Renee Rymer
Board Member, Marin Symphony
A retired banking professional with 37 years of experience in local banking, Renee Rymer has been a dedicated leader and advocate for the Marin Symphony Association for over three decades. Her service on the Board has included roles as Secretary, Treasurer, and Vice President, along with leadership as Chair of the Governance and Finance Committees and, currently, the Development Committee. She co-chaired the successful Symphony Sustained Campaign, which significantly strengthened the organization’s reserve fund. In recognition of her outstanding commitment and impact, she were honored with the ACSO Most Valuable Player Volunteer Award in 2022.
Speaking at "Building a Fundraising Board: From Expectations to Action" on Saturday, August 8, 10:30-11:45 AM
Daniel Titmuss
Senior Consultant, SEO, Capacity
Dan Titmuss is a Senior Consultant at Capacity. He works with theaters, museums, and orchestras to help them shine online through smart SEO, content strategy, and thoughtful uses of artificial intelligence. He loves helping creative organizations get the spotlight they deserve and is always happy to talk about making websites more findable. Dan is also exploring how emerging tech and AI can support creativity in the arts, including a recent side project for Melville fans, mobydickbible.com. When he’s not dorking out about digital marketing, he performs comedy, magic, and other oddities in tiny basement theaters around NYC.
Speaking at "PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP: Building Brand Voice & Tone and Your AI Copywriting Partner " on Wednesday, August 5, 1:00-4:00 PM.
Anne Viricel
Executive Director, San Bernardino Symphony
Dr. Anne Viricel has served as Executive Director of the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra since 2013. Under her leadership, the Orchestra has expanded its community reach through initiatives like their award-winning "Classroom to Concert Hall", which brings thousands of students to live performances.
Beyond the arts, Dr. Viricel is a Professor at the University of Redlands and an Emeritus Trustee for the San Bernardino Community College District. She is a published author, a dedicated advocate for local education and culture, and serves on several arts and education boards. Her extensive community service has earned her numerous accolades, including the Black Culture Foundation's "Black Rose" Award and being named a "Woman of Distinction" by the California State Senate.
Speaking at "Relationships Matter: Case Studies in Building Community" on Friday, August 7, 9:00-10:15 AM
Peer Forum Facilitators
Jessica Bejarano
Founder & Artistic Director, San Francisco Philharmonic
Jessica Bejarano is the Founder, CEO and Music Director of the San Francisco Philharmonic. She also serves as Cover Conductor with the San Francisco Symphony and Curator and Scholar in Residence with San Francisco Opera. A recognized leader in the field, she sits on the boards of the Association of California Symphony Orchestras and the International Conductors’ Guild, and serves as the Keynote Motivational Speaker for Stanford Medicine (2024–2025).
Jessica has received national recognition for her groundbreaking work in classical music. She was featured on NBC’s The Today Show with Natalie Morales as a “Woman Breaking Barriers as a Trailblazing Symphony Conductor,” and has also appeared on PBS NewsHour Weekend. She was named one of KQED Arts’ Bay Brilliant Top 10 Artists to Watch in 2018 and appeared on ABC’s To Tell the Truth in 2022. In addition, the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts honored her as one of 100 distinguished contributors to the arts in the Bay Area.
In 2019, Jessica made history as the first woman to guest conduct the American Youth Symphony in Los Angeles. She has since guest conducted internationally with ensembles including the Classical Symphony in St. Petersburg, Russia; the Urbino Summer Orchestra in Italy; the Philharmonie
Orchestra “Mihail Jora” in Bacau, Romania; the Ruse National Philharmonic in Bulgaria; the Bohuslav Martinů Philharmonic Orchestra in the Czech Republic; the Antonio Soler Orchestra in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Spain; and the Falcon Symphony Orchestra in Venezuela, in addition to
numerous orchestras across the United States.
Jessica and her orchestra, San Francisco Philharmonic have also done cool crossover performances with legendary rock band Journey and Neal Schon; rap artist Andre Nickatina; Latina Rapper, Snow Tha Product; and Mexican singer & songwriter, Oscar Cortez.
In the San Francisco Bay Area, Jessica has held a wide range of conducting roles with orchestras, choirs, and youth ensembles, reflecting her deep commitment to music education and community engagement. She is also an in-demand motivational speaker, presenting for arts organizations, corporations, and schools. Jessica holds a Master of Arts in Choral and Orchestral Conducting from the University of California, Davis, a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Wyoming, an Associate of Arts in Music Education from Casper College from Casper Wyoming.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Conductors, Musicians and Artistic Leaders on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Renee Cooper
Marketing Manager, Santa Barbara Symphony
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Marketing & Patron Services Staff on Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Emily Rankin
Vice President of Development, Pacific Symphony
Emily Rankin joined Pacific Symphony in 2024 as the vice president for development overseeing a fundraising team whose strategic plan includes the Symphony’s 50th Anniversary campaign culminating in 2028-2029.
Her career spans more than two decades in higher education and non-profit management including serving as the assistant vice chancellor for development at University of California, Riverside, Scripps College, University of San Diego, Whittier College, Opera Pacific, and the Byrd Hoffman Foundation.
Emily holds an Executive MBA from Claremont Graduate University and Peter Drucker School of Management, and a Bachelor of Arts from Scripps College.
Emily is an avid volunteer, philanthropist, and doting aunt to her 2 yrs old niece.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Development on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
John Wineglass
Composer, JW Productions, LLC
Multiple Emmy-Award Winning and Grammy Nominated Composer
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Conductors, Musicians and Artistic Leaders on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Nora Brady
Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, LA Phil
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Marketing & Patron Services Staff on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM.
Kevin Eberle-Noel
Executive Director, Redlands Symphony
Dr. Kevin Eberle-Noel is the Executive Director of the Redlands Symphony. A leader at the intersection of modernization and accessibility, Kevin works to highlight the work of small orchestras who shoulder much of the burden of our industry's forward momentum. He is an ACSO Board Member, a bassoonist, and a certified Diet Coke aficionado.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Executive Directors with Budgets Under $1 Million on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Kelly Ruggirello
President, Long Beach Symphony
Since 2013, Kelly Ruggirello has served as President of the Long Beach Symphony, guiding the 91-year-old institution into a new era of growth, innovation, and community relevance. Under her leadership, the Symphony now serves more than 70,000 audience members annually and has reached nearly one million children throughout its history. In one of the most diverse cities in the nation, Kelly has intentionally expanded artistic collaborations that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the region, earning numerous local and statewide honors for excellence and innovation.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for CEOs with Budgets Over $1 Million on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Chelsea Chambers
Executive Director, Peninsula Symphony of Northern California
Chelsea Chambers, Executive Director of Peninsula Symphony of Northern California, enjoys a career leading a small but effective team while deepening skillsets in concert production and artist liaising, marketing, operations, outreach programs, governance, and finance. Chambers holds a Bachelor degree from UCLA and a Master of Music degree from the Royal College of Music, London. Ms. Chambers also serves on the board of the Association of California Symphony Orchestras (ACSO) and especially enjoys working with other leaders of arts organizations to share ideas, insight, and best practices to foster growth of the symphonic sector.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Community Orchestras on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Kylie Howard
Director of Education, Community Engagement, and Inclusion, Reno Philharmonic
Kylie Howard (she/her), from Reno, Nevada, serves as the Director of Education, Community Engagement, and Inclusion at the Reno Philharmonic, overseeing programs impacting over 20,000 Northern Nevada children and families annually, while fostering community relationships and promoting inclusion initiatives.
Kylie also works as an adjunct faculty in Southern Utah University's (SUU) Arts Administration Masters Program where she leads online courses in Arts Advocacy & Cultural Policy and Board Relations & Strategic Planning.
Kylie holds a Masters degree in Arts Administration from SUU and was recognized as the program’s Outstanding Graduate in 2024. In addition to her masters degree, Kylie holds a B.Mus from the University of Utah where she studied bassoon performance. Kylie is an active freelance bassoonist and has played with notable organizations such as the Orchestra on Temple Square and the Reno Chamber Orchestra among others.
Her volunteer and leadership work includes board membership on the former Reno Public Art Committee, the Battalion Drum and Bugle Corps Board of Directors, and the Utah Wind Symphony Board of Directors. Kylie is also a graduate from the Reno/Sparks Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program.
Kylie is passionate about strengthening community connection through accessible and meaningful cultural engagement.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Education & Community Engagement on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Anne-Marie Spataru
Immediate Past Chair, LACO & Co-Chair, NMUSA
Anne-Marie completed in June 2025 her 3-year term as Chair of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra Board which she joined in 2018 and continues to serve on. She was appointed in July 2025 to a 3-year term as co-chair of New Music USA, a national organization dedicated to advancing new music. She was also appointed to the ACSO Board in August 2025. Anne-Marie retired from UCLA following a 30-year career in the management of significant campus construction projects. Since retirement, she has served in volunteer leadership positions with several UCLA affiliated support groups.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Board Members of Professional Orchestras on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Alex Chu
Director of Education & Community Engagement, Pasadena Symphony
A proud alumnus of the Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestras (PYSO), Alex Chu has served the Pasadena Symphony in various roles since 2009 and was appointed Director of Education and Community Engagement in 2015.
Under his leadership, PYSO has grown from three to 11 ensembles, now serving more than 700 students across the San Gabriel Valley through after-school and tuition-free in-school programs. He also serves as Camp Director for Bellis Music Camp, a weeklong summer program for middle school band and orchestra students.
Raised in San Gabriel, California, Alex began playing viola in fifth grade through his public school music program. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, reading, escape rooms, and spending time with his wife, Cat, and their two dogs, Calvin and Hobbes.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Youth Orchestras on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Nadia Liu
Executive Director, Young People's Symphony Orchestra
Nadia Liu is the Executive Director of the Young People’s Symphony Orchestra (YPSO) in Berkeley, California's oldest youth orchestra. Nadia regularly facilitates peer forums for youth orchestra leaders through ACSO, helping connect leaders around shared challenges and ideas. She came to nonprofit arts leadership from a for-profit background, and is particularly interested in building sustainable systems, strengthening community ties, and expanding access to high-level orchestral experiences for young musicians.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Youth Orchestras on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.
Noemi Vera
Director of Operations, Monterey Symphony
Noemi Vera is the Director of Operations at the Monterey Symphony and is responsible for all concert operations, as well as finance and bookkeeping. Noemi first became involved with the Monterey Symphony as a high school student volunteer in 2010 after seeing the Monterey Symphony perform Gustav Holst's The Planets and falling in love with the classical music concert experience. She went on to join the staff in 2014 as a Box Office Coordinator and took the challenge of doing "all duties as assigned" very seriously! She enjoys working with the orchestra and crew to create a welcoming environment and a seamless concert experience for patrons. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from CSUMB in 2018.
Facilitator: Peer Forum for Operations on Thursday, August 6, 1:00-2:30 PM and Friday, August 7, 2:30-4:00 PM.