Board of Directors and Leadership

The organization is led by the Board of Directors which is made up of influential community leaders. The Directors have shown their commitment to the Palm Springs Opera Guild by donating at the Andante level or any level within the Intermezzo Circle or Maestro Circle, sharing their knowledge, and giving of their time. Once a Board candidate is approved by the Nominating and Governance Committee, they are invited to become a member of the Board. The Board of Directors, typically, meets eight times annually to receive reports from the working committees, to vote on the annual budget, and to attend to other matters of governance.

2026/2027
Board Officers

Dean WilliamsonPresident

Patrick AndersonVice-President

Marie Allman Parliamentarian

Joyce Yakas Secretary

Robert WalkerTreasurer

Board Directors

Roy
Schaefer

Josie Gomez

Katherine
Maruca

Michelle Massie

Jeffrey RobertsPast President

Christopher
Winslow

Joseph "Jay" BartushImmediate Past President

David Hamilton, Artistic Director, a graduate of the Juilliard School of Music, has had a stellar opera singing career at the Metropolitan Opera, toured European opera houses, and spent 30 years teaching at the college level while concurrently serving as the Company Manager of the Fargo Moorhead Opera Company. He is now sharing his extraordinary artistic talents with PSOG.

David’s work as General Manager is complemented by an equally talented Allen Cookson. Allen brings 25 years of experience in event management and community engagement to PSOG. His clients, who utilize his expertise in event management, range from local organizations and individual celebrities to international companies. Allen’s attention to detail in all aspects of an event helps PSOG move to a higher level of professional program presentation.

Guild Staff

David HamiltonArtistic Director & General Manager

Allen Cookson
Administration, Events & Community Engagement Manager

Committed To

Good Business Practices

Bylaws

 Bylaws are an organization’s internal operating rules. Although we are not required to publicize these governing documents, the Palm Springs Opera Guild is proud to be a transparent organization. The Palm Springs Opera Guild 

Committees

Executive CommitteeDean Williamson Chair

Nominating & GovernanceRobert Walker Chair

Artistic PerformanceJeffrey Roberts Chair

AdvancementMichelle Massie, Roy Schaefer, Co-Chairs

Education OutreachJosie Gomez Chair

FinanceRobert Walker Chair

Get Involved and make a difference!

The Palm Springs Opera Guild thrives because of the dedication and passion of our members. Joining a committee is a great way to contribute your talents, connect with fellow opera enthusiasts, and help shape the success of our programs and events. Whether you’re interested in fundraising, event planning, education, or community outreach, there’s a place for you. Become a part of the team that brings opera to life—contact us today to learn more!

GuideStar

We are proud to be a recipient of GuideStar’s Platinum Seal. This rating indicates our commitment to doing good business for our members and patrons. GuideStar Seals of Transparency indicates that a nonprofit has provided key information to its Nonprofit Profile. This recognition shows a commitment to transparency. By providing up-to-date information, nonprofits allow potential donors and funders to make educated decisions. The Guild is a 501(c)(3) organization. Tax ID: 95-6220739. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.  The leadership of the Guild is 100% voluntary.  Officers receive no monetary compensation for services rendered.

Join

Membership

Become a member and experience the beauty and brilliance of opera through curated access to performances, receptions, and exclusive cultural engagements. Connect with a community of opera enthusiasts like yourself. 

Programs

Vocal Competition

Our programs offer unique opportunities for learning, inspiration, and personal growth. From Opera in the Schools, which introduces students to the wonders of opera, to Opera in the Park, a beloved community event, we make opera accessible to everyone. Our Annual Vocal Competition showcases rising talent, while lectures and workshops provide deeper insight into music, history, and production. Zarzuela celebrates the richness of Spanish musical theater, expanding cultural appreciation.