School of American Music Announces President-Elect
Submitted by G. Taylor, School of American Music Public Relations
The School of American Music (SAM) announced that local teacher and performer Ron Spears has been elected the next President of its Board of Directors.
“I am honored to accept the presidency of SAM and to lead the school into its second decade,” said Ron. “My roots in the organization go deep. My wife Marge served as a founding board member. I have been a board member, music teacher and performer at SAM for several years. I look forward to reaching out to my friends and supporters in the community to champion the school’s vision to be an inspired and inclusive community united and enriched by the joy and love of music.”
SAM Executive Director Donna Mitchell said, “I have worked with Ron as a teacher, voice student, board member, committee member, fellow performer, festival organizer, policy examiner, sound technician and friend. His broad-based experience in all the reaches of SAM makes him well-qualified for the work as our President and future face of the organization. I look forward to continuing our mission under his leadership.”
“Most of all, Ron has the passion, commitment, and heart that you want to see in a board leader,” says Mary Wilson, SAM Vice President. We are so fortunate to have his talent, dedication, and his wit! He has the board’s complete support.”
Garth Taylor, SAM founder and outgoing Board President, outlined the succession process: “I’ve been at the helm for 10 years. Making a plan to pass the torch is now the responsible thing to do. The Music School was helped by a planning retreat held last Autumn that was funded by The Pokagon Foundation. I will be staying involved with the school. I love the mission and the impact we have on the lives of the students and the economic and cultural value we bring to the community. I look forward to the transfer of the Presidency to my good friend Ron, which will allow me to dedicate full time to teaching, composing and other music projects.” The School of American Music, located in Three Oaks Michigan, is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation. All donations and ticket purchases are tax deductible and matched by an anonymous donor. For more information, please go to Michiana’s Musical Connection https://schoolofamericanmusic.com/.
About School of American Music: The School of American Music was founded by D. Garth Taylor to serve as a music resource in Michiana. Currently serving as President of SAM, Taylor has been joined over the years by Executive Director, Donna M. Mitchell and a full Board of Directors. Their mission is to provide education, performance, and audience opportunities in music and the related arts in the Southwest Michigan area.
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