SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL BOARD NOMINEES

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL BOARD NOMINEES This slate of eight candidates has been nominated to fill four expiring terms on the International Board of Directors beginning May 1, 2017 and ending April 30, 2020. The following information was written and submitted by each nominee. Note to Chapters: Please schedule your election meeting in October or November. Ballots are due at International headquarters by 3:00 p.m. Central Time, Wednesday, December 7, 2016. If you have any questions, please contact the Chief Operating Officer or Corporate Secretary at International headquarters at 800.992.7464 or 918.622.1444.

Sweet Adelines International, 9110 South Toledo Ave., Tulsa, OK 74137, USA, www.sweetadelines.com

Thérèse Antonini North Metro and Crescent City Sound Regions 16 & 10 respectively 22-year member Education: College Diploma, Computer Programming and Business Systems Analysis Specialized Training: Technical - PRINCE2 Certification (Project Management), PROSCI Change Management, Graham Business Process Review/Improvement, 6 Thinking Hats. Leadership and Cultural Training - Holding to Account, Leading from Within, Emotional Intelligence, Three Conversations of Leadership Current Occupation: Senior Consultant (IT Applications) Past Occupations: Project Manager, Database Analyst, Systems Analyst, Computer Programmer List five significant leadership roles you have held in Sweet Adelines International: Chapter: President, Membership Chair, Treasurer, Director, Bass Section Leader, Script Writer Regional: Events Coordinator, Workshop Faculty International: International Board of Directors, Task Force Specialist, Regional Leadership Committee, Panel Secretary How do you feel you can contribute to Sweet Adelines International as a member of the International Board of Directors? My experience as a member of both musical and administrative leadership at Chapter, Regional and International levels of Sweet Adelines has given me a great insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Sweet Adelines at all of these levels, and practical experience in delivering solutions to address them. What specific skills, ideas, talents, etc., would you bring to the International Board? My professional background is in the business world, specifically in project management, strategic planning, and business process improvement. My communication skills enable me to participate effectively in group discussions and I love to put my facilitation skills to use to help bring out the creativity and vision in others. What is your vision for the International organization? Sweet Adelines International will be instrumental in increasing the understanding and credibility of barbershop, especially through active participation with School Boards, Universities and the larger music community. We will be recognized as a living and inspirational example of the benefits of singing as our members continue to demonstrate their excellence in both musical and personal development. What should be the priorities for the International organization over the next five to 10 years? Efforts should be focused on raising the profile of Sweet Adelines, with the emphasis on the quality of education and the benefits of membership available. Finding ways to identify and tap into the talents and passions of our members will help keep those benefits relevant and vibrant. Describe what you think Sweet Adelines International will be like 25 years from now: As members of Sweet Adelines we will be recognized for our contributions as community leaders. Our stories will serve as the foundations for inspirational and motivational presentations, especially for the empowerment of women. Our educators will be sought after as experts to develop and support musical programs around the world.

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL – BOARD NOMINEES 2

Sharon Cartwright Northern Beaches Region 34 Eight-year member Education: High School, Associate Diploma in Performing Arts (Theatre) from Queensland University of Technology, Film Production Management Certificate from Australian Film, Television and Radio School in Sydney Australia Specialized Training: General management, Communication, Public relations, Facilitation, Presentation skills, Business and digital media writing, Change management, Positive leadership, Situational leadership, Solution selling, Marketing Current Occupation: 2013-current: Self-employed Strategic Communication Director, specializing in employee engagement and organizational change communication Past Occupations: 2008-2013 – Strategic Communication Director, Precinct, Sydney Australia; 20022008 - General Manager and Director, OgilvyImpact an Ogilvy PR Worldwide company, Sydney Australia; 1999-2002 – Head of Creative Services, Jack Morton Worldwide, Sydney Australia List five significant leadership roles you have held in Sweet Adelines International: 2015 & 2016 International Editorial Review Board member, 2014-2016 Region 34 Team Coordinator, 2012-2014 Region 34 Communications Coordinator, 2009-2014 Team Coordinator, Northern Beaches Chorus, 2009 Marketing Coordinator of Northern Beaches Chorus How do you feel you can contribute to Sweet Adelines International as a member of the International Board of Directors? As a communications director I partner business leaders as they transform organizations. My insights; and ability to see possibilities within challenges enhance my various chapter and regional positions and will add value to the International Board as they shape our future. I’m also keen to contribute a Southern Hemisphere perspective. What specific skills, ideas, talents, etc., would you bring to the International Board? Working remotely in high functioning teams is what I’m used to. I bring diverse cultural perspectives and problem-solving skills from working on global change communication campaigns. A natural networker, I enjoy connecting people with others for their mutual benefit. My pragmatic business sense is balanced with optimism, creativity and heart. What is your vision for the International organization? Sweet Adelines International education is available to women of all ages, everywhere. We invent technologies to enable this expansion, create new revenue streams and inspire the next generations of singers, arrangers and music leaders. Our art form continues to advance as new countries interpret it through arrangements of culturally relevant songs. What should be the priorities for the International organization over the next five to 10 years? Identify member lead-generation sources and understand what women seek from their singing experience to keep their needs at the center of our growth ambitions. Foster partnerships with compatible music organizations to encourage trial of barbershop amongst women with a passion for diverse musical styles. Evangelize the art of barbershop arranging! Describe what you think Sweet Adelines International will be like 25 years from now: We’ll be a recognized brand, attracting funding, high-profile performances and be a powerful industry voice. Today’s Rising Stars will lead a technology-enabled future that opens up greater connection between our members and delivers world-class education anywhere, anytime. We’ll thrive as a multi-generational forum for women to grow, self-express and shine.


Jeanne d’Arc (JD) Crowe Canadian Showtime Region 16 20-year member Education: High School; College Business Administration Degree Specialized Training: Customer Service, Human Resources, Coaching & Mentoring, Facilitation & Mediation, Leading Highly Effective Teams, Change Management Current and Past Occupations: Human Resources, Payroll Operations Manager for NAV CANADA (Air Navigation Service Provider); Executive Office Manager, Privy Council of Canada, Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples; Executive Office Manager, Privy Council of Canada, Canadian Panel on Violence Against Women and Children List five significant leadership roles you have held in Sweet Adelines International: Chorus: Team Coordinator (5 years), Visual Team Member (10 years), Visual Leader (1 year) Region: Chapter Coordinator (5 years), Membership Coordinator (1 year), Convention Team OPL (1 year), Chair Regional Convention (9 years), RMT Associate (1 year), RMT Team Coordinator (1 year) International: Regional Leadership Committee (1 year), International Board of Directors May 1, 2016 – April 30, 2017, International Executive Committee and Treasurer May 1, 2016 – April 30, 2017, Bylaws & Rules Specialist May 1, 2015 – April 30, 2016, Worldwide Moderator May 1, 2016 – April 30, 2017. How do you feel you can contribute to Sweet Adelines International as a member of the International Board of Directors? I love what this organization stands for and the opportunities it offers women. I am a strong and compassionate leader who believes in empowering people by helping them acquire the training and tools they require to succeed! My strong managerial skills and experience in human resources will make me a strong contributor and suitable candidate for the Board of Directors. What specific skills, ideas, talents, etc., would you bring to the International Board? I am dedicated, innovative and organized with great facilitation skills. I am approachable, a good listener and a motivator. As a Human Resources professional, I have worked with teams of experts that have developed and rolled out strong employee relations programs (employment equity, diversity, peer support, etc.) that have helped me manage and keep very large teams engaged, creative and productive. All this experience I would bring to the IBOD table. What is your vision for the International organization? My vision sees our craft as a trendy and popular art form. Sweet Adelines is accessible to all and leverages our youth to bring a fresh and modern approach to our arrangements and performances. What should be the priorities for the International organization over the next five to 10 years? Membership growth and leader training! We need to invest in our leadership and provide them with appropriate musical and administrative training to enable them to do their jobs with ease and to help them attract and retain members. Describe what you think Sweet Adelines International will be like 25 years from now: In 25 years the organization will be thriving and will have spread to parts of the world yet un-barbershopped! By keeping up with ever changing technology we will be able to reach more women virtually affording them the opportunity to belong, grow, participate and learn even when on the road due to work or family commitments.


Paula Davis Song of Seattle Region 13 32-year member Education: BA in Music Education, 28 hours on a MA in Music Education Specialized Training: Worked and trained in the commercial insurance industry for 12 years, Numerous Continuing Education. Classes in music and education topics Current Occupation: Retired Past Occupations: Middle School and High School Choral Director for 10 years, Taught Speech and Drama for three years, Commercial Property and Liability Insurance Accounts Coordinator for 12 years, Church Musical Director for 10 years List five significant leadership roles you have held in Sweet Adelines International: International Board of Directors member, Executive Committee Secretary; President-Elect, Certified Judge and Judge Specialist – Expression Category, Regional Leadership Committee Chair, Regional Management Teams serving as Education Coordinator and Directors’ Coordinator in Regions 10 and 8, International Faculty, Chorus Director, Chorus and Quartet Coach, Regional Faculty in Regions 10, 8, and 13. How do you feel you can contribute to Sweet Adelines International as a member of the International Board of Directors? By combining a deep love for this organization and our members while employing a visionary and service-oriented approach to leadership. I bring both heart and mind to the governing experience with the goal of insuring our future in Leadership and Membership development, financial health and strong education while encouraging all of us to find joy in our journey together. What specific skills, ideas, talents, etc., would you bring to the International Board? Leadership, Educational and Business Background and Skills; Broad Exposure to Membership; Experience at all Levels of Sweet Adelines, both musically and administratively; Commitment to Serve; Visionary, Teaching, Long-Range Planning; Strong People Skills; Creative Thinking. What is your vision for the International organization? My vision would be to share our special kind of harmony with all women – that we will grow and strengthen membership among all ages, develop visionary leaders who creatively serve members, provide premier educational opportunities, and be financially strong and secure for future generations while promoting and celebrating all member’s contributions at every level as we walk into our future with the unity, joy and harmony that singing together creates and multiplies. What should be the priorities for the International organization over the next five to 10 years? Membership Stability and Expansion, Development of Future Leaders – Musical and Administrative, Financial Strength with a view to our Future, Encouragement and Education of Singers at All Levels, Strategies for Broader Outreach into All Age Groups and International Areas with a view toward membership. Describe what you think Sweet Adelines International will be like 25 years from now: A vibrant, fun, highly respected and educational hobby for all women promoting personal growth, musical performance, entertainment, friendship and Barbershop Harmony! We will embrace new technologies and ideas that embrace and support membership while we stand as a strong, united voice showing the power of music, education, teamwork, commitment to excellence and much needed harmony around the world.


Cammi MacKinlay Lions Gate Region 26 30-year member Education: B. Ed (Aberdeen, Scotland), English as a Second Language Teaching Certificate Specialized Training: Essential Skills Assessment Certificate, Canada Language Benchmarks Assessment Certificate Current and Past Occupations: Assistant Department Head at Vancouver Community College, English as a Second Language Instructor (32 years) List five significant leadership roles you have held in Sweet Adelines International: International President, Membership Committee Chair, Education Direction Committee, Nominating Committee Chair, Panel Secretary How do you feel you can contribute to Sweet Adelines International as a member of the International Board of Directors? As a 30-year member, and Past President of SA, I know what makes us “tick”. I believe change is not only healthy – it is critical to keep us viable for the future. As a life-long educator, I am passionate that our continued focus on learning and growth will create an amazing future. What specific skills, ideas, talents, etc., would you bring to the International Board? I have strong administrative and communication skills. I am positive, out-going, enthusiastic - a committed people person. I am objective, patient, unflappable, and compassionate. I am passionate about the organization and its members and “walk the talk” of being an ambassador for Sweet Adelines International. What is your vision for the International organization? We change lives! We have expanded our worldwide appeal and we embrace openness and accessibility. Every member has increased self confidence and is changed for the better by their SA experience. Our singing talent is showcased through all technological avenues. SA is known as the go-to organization for singing, education, growth and friendship. What should be the priorities for the International organization over the next five to 10 years? We need to expand our reach and embrace accessibility so more can experience the impact this organization can have on their lives. Through leadership growth and education, we must focus on enhancing the chorus experience for all members. We must provide readily accessible one-on-one education and support for our influential Directors. Describe what you think Sweet Adelines International will be like 25 years from now: With 30,000 members, we are experiencing steady growth annually. More women and girls are discovering how impactful SA can be, not only in personal growth but on their audiences. Their lives are being changed for the good, and they can’t resist telling others. Some choruses have waitlists for membership, and conventions are sold-out!


Janice McKenna Pacific Sound Region 13 35-year member Education: Bachelors of Arts from Regis College in Weston, MA; Economics/Political Science Specialized Training: Director Certification program – testing for Certification Current and Past Occupations: Director, Finance and Administration for KUOW/Puget Sound Public Radio in Seattle, WA; Controller-several radio groups in Seattle, Portland and Sacramento; Controller, Fidelity Capital-Fidelity Investments in Boston List five significant leadership roles you have held in Sweet Adelines International: Assistant DirectorCamellia City Chorus-Sacramento, CA; Assistant Director-Pacific Sound Chorus-Bellevue, WA; Regional Faculty-Region 13 and Region 12; Convention Steering Committee Region 13; Regional Finance Coordinator-Region 13; Panel Secretary-current How do you feel you can contribute to Sweet Adelines International as a member of the International Board of Directors? I have been fortunate to sing in three different regions with differing challenges. I feel these experiences will help to identify and assist in multiple ways. Also, as a financial manager in a nonprofit organization, I can assist if necessary with developing best business practices. What specific skills, ideas, talents, etc., would you bring to the International Board? I believe we need to work harder to encourage younger women to join our organization; either through marketing outreach programs or financial incentives to allow for more participation. What is your vision for the International organization? As a nonprofit, it is imperative that we leverage that status to apply for arts grants and support. One idea would be to request support to provide equipment to regions to help facilitate regional conventions. Many organizations support arts organizations and we should tap into that philanthropy. What should be the priorities for the International organization over the next five to 10 years? Youth outreach programs to introduce our fabulous hobby to young women all over. A lot of school systems have eliminated music programs because of budget cuts and we have thousands of ambassadors ready and I’m sure willing to provide educational guidance. An outreach program should be developed and offered to school systems within our chorus metropolitan areas. Describe what you think Sweet Adelines International will be like 25 years from now: Our organization has moved into the 21st century in many ways including video evaluations, and skype coaching opportunities to bring our fabulous educators to more geographic areas. We need to develop libraries of coaching videos to allow for more opportunities to ‘share the wealth’! Broadcast technology is changing rapidly and we need to keep up.


Renée Porzel Melodeers Region 3 27-year member Education: High School, Three-years college in Music Education Specialized Training: I have been trained in piano, voice, dance and theatre Current and Past Occupations: Vocal and Visual Coach for Choruses and Quartets List five significant leadership roles you have held in Sweet Adelines International: International President, International Board Member, Judge Specialist Moderator, International Faculty and member of the Education Direction Committee. How do you feel you can contribute to Sweet Adelines International as a member of the International Board of Directors? My past leadership roles have given me the opportunity to learn about every aspect of Sweet Adelines International. I can contribute as a Board member with my knowledge of governance, long-range planning, fiduciary responsibility, and membership wants and needs to further our mission to educate women who love singing barbershop music. What specific skills, ideas, talents, etc., would you bring to the International Board? My contact with many of our members helps me focus on the direction our members want our organization to go in the future. I am creative, passionate about singing and performing, and strongly believe that Sweet Adelines gives women a chance to grow and succeed in many different areas. What is your vision for the International organization? My vision is that we continue to honor the barbershop craft we all love, and provide a place for women to learn singing skills, performing skills and administrative skills that help them grow in their musical and personal lives. As we continue to grow and attract new members we will continue to evolve as an organization that trains women who love to sing. What should be the priorities for the International organization over the next five to 10 years? Membership growth and grassroots outreach to women of all ages who love to sing has to be our priority. The current popularity of acapella singing gives us the perfect opportunity to take a leading role in sharing our style of music. Describe what you think Sweet Adelines International will be like 25 years from now: We will be sharing barbershop harmony with appreciative audiences who know we exist because of the perseverance and dedication of each of our members spreading the word in their own communities. We will no longer be the best kept musical secret!


Mary Rhea OK City Region 25 29-year member Education: Bachelor of Science – Physical Therapy, Master of Arts Gerontology Specialized Training: Management training; Certified Relocation and Transition Specialist; physical therapy related continuing education (20 hours annually) Current and Past Occupations: Physical therapist x 36 years, Owner – Caring Transitions of Oklahoma City franchise List five significant leadership roles you have held in Sweet Adelines International: Certified Sound Judge; International Faculty; Directors’ Education Coordinators - member; Region 25 Directors’ Coordinator; Co-chair 2016 Sweet Adelines International Directors’ Seminar How do you feel you can contribute to Sweet Adelines International as a member of the International Board of Directors? Love of the organization spurs my desire to serve. With a “get ‘er done” attitude, I look at the positives in a situation to overcome obstacles. Having been a member of four regions as well as starting a prospective satellite chorus in Germany, I bring a diverse range of experience. What specific skills, ideas, talents, etc., would you bring to the International Board? Project management – I thrive on taking an idea, exploring options, and developing a concept into an efficient, effective program. In my professional work life, listening skills, observations skills, and the ability to change course when necessary are crucial to success. I have honed these skills to work effectively as a leader and team member. What is your vision for the International organization? Sweet Adelines is widely recognized as the leading educational and musical organization for women. Fiscally sound with solid financial plans for the future, we provide affordable opportunities for women to grow as leaders and performers through on site educational events, online educational options, and live performances. What should be the priorities for the International organization over the next five to 10 years? With the ever increasing popularity of a cappella music, we need to jump on the bandwagon, expanding marketing efforts to spread the word about the opportunities offered in Sweet Adelines. Development of the Open Division and encouraging mixed ensembles allows us to sharpen our performances to appeal to a broader audience. Describe what you think Sweet Adelines International will be like 25 years from now: Sweet Adelines will be a thriving organization, providing an outlet for women to express themselves through music. Our focus will be on education, personal growth and development. While using technology to our greatest advantage, we will not forget the importance of interpersonal relationships, and that we harmonize together with friends.
