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Acting Dean and Sub-Dean: Laura Ramsey Russell, DMA - Laura recently retired as Music Director at Christ Episcopal Church in Poughkeepsie, and she was founder of the Concerts Con Brio music series at the church. In addition she was co-founder of the Hudson Valley BachFest in 2000 and has conducted many of Bach’s choral works. She looks forward to planning many exciting programs for CHVAGO members. She has a DMA in conducting from the Hartt School; an MFA from SUNY Purchase, and a BA from Brandeis University. She has taught in the music programs at Marist College and Dutchess Community College.
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Treasurer: Susan Guse - Susan Guse is currently serving on the CHVAGO board as treasurer. Susan was formerly Director of Music at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Poughkeepsie, and is currently Director of Music at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Kent, CT. She has a Master’s Degree in Sacred Music from Wittenberg University. Susan teaches piano and organ at home in Hopewell Junction.
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Secretary: Nancy Vanderlee - Nancy Vanderlee has served as CHVAGO secretary since 2017. An alumnus of the Crane School of Music, and a recent retiree from the Hyde Park Central School District, she currently holds the position of Director of Music/Organist at St Peter’s Episcopal Church, Lithgow. Additionally, she teaches piano and flute privately, sings in the Cappella Festiva Chamber Choir, and performs as a free-lance flutist.
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Membership Coordinator: Susan LaGrande - Susan is a long-time member of CHVAGO, having first served as assistant newsletter editor. Over the years her role has increased until now she publishes the monthly newsletter, maintains the web site and Facebook page, and handles all membership issues. In addition she is the de facto information broker for the chapter, handling inquiries about Subs and Position Openings. After serving as organist in several local churches since the 1970s, she is currently retired from the bench.
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At-Large Member: Justan Foster - Justan is Music Director at the Greenbush Reformed Church (East Greenbush, NY) and has served on the CHVAGO Board since 2020. A Past Dean of the Eastern New York and Hudson-Catskill AGO, Justan works to promote the compositions of living, American composers and supports funding programs that encourage growth of interest in organ and development of young artists--which includes acting as a past chair of the Regional Quimby Pipe Organ Competition in Glens Falls, New York and coordinator for several Pedals, Pipes, and Pizza events. Outside of his role in the music world, Justan is a Microsoft Solutions Administrator & Architect for Church World Service (a international refugee and disaster relief organization).
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At-Large Member: Johannes (John) A. Vanderlee - Senior Electronics Technician retired from IBM and Vassar College. I have had a lifelong interest in all things organ from a musical as well as a technical perspective-be it pipes or digital. Initiated and completed the renovation of the Bardavon theatre pipe organ under the New York Theatre Organ Society’s banner, of which I currently serve as Chairman. I believe that the organ is a misunderstood instrument, a concept which needs to be countered by greater exposure tho the general public, both young and old, by any means possible.
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At-Large Member: Eileen Kerkes - Eileen Kerkes received a degree in oboe performance from the Hartt School of Music. She has worked as an accountant, veterinary technician, and oboist/English hornist (Boise Philharmonic). Eileen has renewed her long-time interest in organ studies since returning to the East coast, and looks forward to making connections with other organists by serving on the CHVAGO board.
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