Board of Directors & StaffBoard & Staff

Photo by Leslie Plesser

Board of Directors

Meet the Board of Directors: Bloomington Symphony Orchestra

The Bloomington Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors is committed to supporting our mission of bringing music lovers and accomplished musicians together to experience inspirational performances of orchestral music, with community as our cornerstone. With a shared love for the arts and a deep belief in the transformative power of music, this volunteer governance board provides strategic guidance and stewardship to ensure the continued success of the BSO.

Each board member bring their personal experience in areas such as music education, nonprofit leadership, finance, and community engagement. Together, they play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the orchestra, fostering musical excellence, and expanding our impact in the community.

Through their leadership and vision, the BSO remains a vibrant cultural cornerstone in Bloomington, offering world-class performances and educational programs that inspire audiences of all ages.

Julia Wells (2025)
President

Karen Bottge (2025)
Vice President

Megan Werner (2026)
Secretary

Patricia Reller (2027)
Treasurer

Brianna Butler (2025)
Kate Croatt (2026)
Rolf Krogstad (2027)
Matthew Maxam (2027)
Martha Field Smith (2027)
Sara Kleinsasser Tan, Ex-officio
Manny Laureano, Ex-officio

Sara Kleinsasser Tan, Executive Director

Sara Tan started in 2010 as the BSO’s General Manager. In 2022, she transitioned to the Executive Director role, where she oversees the staff, works closely with the Music Director to help bring his vision to life, and with the Board of Directors to fulfill the strategic goals of the organization. 

Sara has experience as a higher education administrator at Concordia College in Moorhead and at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. She worked at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and at Playhouse Square Center, America’s second-largest performing arts center in Cleveland, Ohio.

Jon Poupore, Personnel Coordinator & Librarian

Jon Poupore joined the BSO as Personnel Coordinator in 2017 and added Librarian responsibilities the following year. A Minnesota native who returned to his birth state after time in Maine, Jon brings his experience as Music Librarian/Personnel Manager with the Portland (ME) Symphony to his roles at the BSO, which also includes his position as Assistant Principal Viola. 

Becky Jyrkas, Production Coordinator

A smiling woman, wearing all black, holds a brass French horn

Rebecca Jyrkas, horn

Becky Jyrkas has been the Production Coordinator since 2021. Becky coordinates the logistical and operational details that brings the music to life. She ensures rehearsal and concert venues are available, acquires and moves percussion equipment, and serves as the point of contact between musicians, venue staff, and external vendors.

Matt Cummins, Bookkeeper

Matt Cummins has served as the BSO’s Bookkeeper since 2020. Matt pays bills, creates finance reports, and ensures the organization fulfills the Board’s Fiscal Policies and Procedures.