PSALM Appoints New Executive Director

The Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Valerie Yova Sheets has accepted the position of Executive Director, PSALM, Inc., as of June 1, 2002. Valerie lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan and since 1989 has served as Director of Music at St. George Romanian Orthodox Cathedral, Southfield, Michigan.

Her non-profit management experience includes eight years with the Lyric Chamber Ensemble in Detroit, first as an Administrative Assistant, then as Development Director, and finally as Executive Director. Valerie is Chairperson of the Music Committee, appointed by the Council of Orthodox Christian Churches of metropolitan Detroit. The committee, comprising choir directors and cantors, has been responsible for organizing an inter-Orthodox chorus and providing regular workshops and music classes for local directors and singers.

Her musical education includes a Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from Baldwin-Wallace College, and a Master of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from New England Conservatory. A soprano, she has had an active performing career in opera, oratorio and chamber music, and has been a finalist in several prestigious national competitions, including the Metropolitan Opera Auditions.

Valerie brings energy, vision, and passion for the work of PSALM. She will be at PSALM's Annual Meeting June 28-29 at St. Vladimir's Seminary, where other attendees can meet and get to know her.