Meet the Artistic Team
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Dr. Morgan Jolley
Founding Artistic and Executive Director
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Brian Ellison
Director, Singer-Songwriter Ensemble
Meet Our Board of Directors
Dr. Barbara M. Tagg
President
Dr. Barbara M. Tagg has been an advocate for choral excellence through her national leadership in Chorus America and the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). As a former thirty-seven-year Syracuse University faculty member, she led the SU Women’s Choir for twenty years, founded the Syracuse Children’s Chorus in residence at Syracuse University, and received two ASCAP/Chorus America Awards for Adventurous Programming. She has commissioned and premiered over 90 treble works by distinguished composers in the United States, Great Britain, Canada, and China.
Tagg is the author of Before the Singing (Oxford University Press) and has presented workshops, concerts, and research papers for university and choral organizations across the United States and internationally in Europe, Canada, and Asia. She is currently active in Chorus America, Sigma Alpha Iota Alumni, and the Gregg Smith Singers board of directors, and as founder of the Syracuse University Alumni Group of Sarasota. She is a member of Pi Kappa Lambda, and honorary board member of the Ernst Bacon Foundation. Tagg has been honored by ACDA, Sigma Alpha Iota, Syracuse University, the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra, the city of Syracuse, Civic Morning Musicals, and the Syracuse Post Standard.
Brian Ellison
Secretary
Brian Ellison is a dedicated music educator with over two decades of experience teaching and designing programs that center on creativity, accessibility, and student voice. His work spans a wide range of disciplines—including music production, modern band, electronic music, and guitar—and reflects a commitment to making music education relevant, inclusive, and empowering for all learners.
Brian’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every individual deserves a place in music, regardless of their prior experience or background. He fosters learning environments where students are encouraged to take creative risks, collaborate authentically, and explore music as both a personal and communal expression. His programs have included student-run recording studios, original composition projects, and live performance opportunities that highlight contemporary musical forms and diverse cultural perspectives.
A passionate advocate for equity in the arts, Brian has led initiatives that expand access to high-quality music education and celebrate the richness of each participant’s unique voice. His work continues to evolve with a focus on innovation, community connection, and lifelong musical engagement.
Anita Lewis
Board of Directors Member
Anita Lewis, a lifelong resident of Elmira, NY, has dedicated her career to strengthening the community she calls home. For more than 25 years, she has served as Chief Development Officer for the Economic Opportunity Program (EOP) of Chemung and Schuyler Counties, overseeing program operations and funding development while staying deeply connected to community service. A passionate advocate for youth development and accessible services, Anita also serves on the Board of The Arc of Chemung Schuyler, inspired in part by her son’s lifelong journey with the agency.
Anita is proud of Elmira’s resilience, friendliness, and family-oriented spirit. She believes in helping others as she was once helped, striving always to “fix things and see them succeed.” Beyond her professional and civic commitments, she enjoys performing with her band, Top Shelf, and celebrating the beauty and culture of the Southern Tier. Anita encourages newcomers to explore the region’s lakes, wineries, events, and welcoming community life, which she feels too often goes underrated.
Dr. P. Wesley Roy
Vice President
Dr. P. Wesley Roy worked as a public high and middle school teacher for ten years, where he taught choirs, music theory, private voice lessons, and musical theater. He has served on county and state boards for the Florida Vocal Association and the American Choral Directors Association, and he has performed nationally and internationally with the Festival Singers of Florida. Wesley is a firm advocate for furthering educational opportunities and accessibility for students and teachers with the ultimate goal of using our art for the service of others. His current work involves designing performance practice resources for teachers and studying the effects of social justice music in our ever-changing choral landscape. He has presented at state and national professional conferences on stress management for performing arts teachers, community-building, student leadership, and Baroque performance practice. Wesley completed his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Choral Conducting at the University of Miami, where he directed the Frost Symphonic Choir, taught conducting and vocal methods, and organized the annual high school honor choir event. He also served as the Assistant Conductor Fellow for the GRAMMY®-nominated professional ensemble, Seraphic Fire. Prior to his work in schools, he received a Master of Music Education in Choral Conducting from Florida State University and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Syracuse University. As a native upstate-New Yorker, he is thrilled to be part of the faculty at the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. In his free time, he enjoys cuddling with his sweet little dachshund.
Joseph Staats
Treasurer
Joseph Staats brings more than 25 years of operational, engineering, and managerial expertise to his role as Treasurer of Vocal Essence of the Southern Tier (VEST). Since joining Corning Incorporated in 1999, he has held a progression of leadership roles including Industrial Engineer, Team Leader, Process Engineer, Logistics Manager, and Finishing Department Head. Currently serving as a Senior Industrial Engineer, Joseph plays a key role in driving strategic initiatives, optimizing systems, and leading cross-functional teams across the organization.
With a strong foundation in process improvement and resource management, Joseph offers a data-informed and detail-oriented approach to financial stewardship. His deep familiarity with complex systems, budgeting, and operational planning ensures that VEST’s mission is supported by responsible, transparent, and forward-thinking fiscal oversight. A long-time advocate for community engagement, Joseph brings both professional discipline and personal commitment to advancing VEST’s vision of inclusive, accessible vocal music.
Nancy Eraca, Esq.
Board of Directors Member
Born and raised in Beacon, New York, Nancy Erace, Esq. has dedicated her career to service, advocacy, and education. After earning her Licensed Practical Nursing certification in 1976 while still in high school, she practiced nursing in several states before settling in Atlanta, Georgia, where she worked in a pediatric open-heart intensive care unit. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Agnes Scott College in 1986 and went on to pursue law at the University of Tulsa College of Law and Pace University School of Law, completing a Summer Law Program at the University of Oxford, England before earning her Juris Doctor in 1989 and admission to the New York State Bar in 1990.
In Elmira NY, she built a 35-year career in criminal defense and family law. She also taught at Corning Community College and served over two decades as President of the Chemung County Bail Project Board.
Now retired, she continues to volunteer and advocate for community initiatives. A passionate supporter of the arts, she raised three musically active children, including Dr. Gabrielle Cornish, a musicologist and professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She enjoys spending time with her seven grandchildren, traveling, and supporting organizations like VEST, whose mission of access, inclusion, and music for all resonates deeply with her values.
Meet Our Honorary Members
Honorary Members are distinguished individuals who embody the spirit and mission of Vocal Essence of the Southern Tier (VEST). Chosen for their leadership, artistry, and commitment to access, inclusion, and community through music, they serve as ambassadors for our vision of music for all.
While they hold no formal voting role, Honorary Members lend their name, voice, and influence to elevate VEST’s work—helping expand visibility, inspire participation, and strengthen partnerships across the Southern Tier and beyond. Their involvement honors the deep connection between music, wellness, and social impact that defines VEST’s purpose.
Dr. Judy Bowers
Professor Emerita of Choral Music Education
at the Florida State University (FSU)
Dr. Judy Bowers, Professor Emerita of Choral Music Education at Florida State University, is a nationally respected conductor, educator, and advocate for inclusive music-making. Over her distinguished career, she led university, community, and honor choirs across the U.S. and abroad, shaping generations of choral teachers. Her pioneering work connecting collegiate singers with incarcerated women at Gadsden Correctional Facility became a national model for community-engaged choral practice. Known for her expertise in adolescent voices and choral pedagogy, Dr. Bowers has published extensively and presented internationally. Now retired, she remains a powerful influence in music education and choral leadership.Now retired, she continues to inspire generations of teachers through her lifelong dedication to access, artistry, and human connection in music.
Dr. Jason Dungee
Director of Choral Activities
University of North Carolina, Charlotte
Dr. Jason A. Dungee (he/him) is Director of Choral Activities at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he leads diverse choral ensembles and teaches conducting and music education. A conductor, tenor, and scholar, he has appeared nationally and internationally, including with the Charleston Gospel Choir, the London Symphony Orchestra, and HBO’s Game of Thrones Live Experience. His article, “A Pedagogy for Living,” published in The Choral Journal, has made him a sought-after presenter on restorative and anti-racist pedagogy. Dr. Dungee holds degrees from Hampton University, Westminster Choir College, and the University of Arizona.
Dr. Lynne Gackle
Professor Emerita, Baylor University
Dr. Lynne Gackle is Professor Emerita of Music at Baylor University, where she served as Director of Choral Activities and Chair of the Ensemble Division. A nationally and internationally recognized conductor, clinician, and scholar, she has held numerous leadership roles within ACDA, including National President. Renowned for her research on the female adolescent voice, she is the author of Finding Ophelia’s Voice, Opening Ophelia’s Heart and editor of multiple acclaimed choral series. Among her many honors are Baylor’s Outstanding Faculty Award in Research, the Texas Choir Masters Award, and the 2023 Frost Centennial Medal from the University of Miami. Lynne has founded several Chilodren and Youth Choral Organizations in Florida and Texas.
Dr. Janet Galvan
Professor Emerita Director of Choral Activities
Ithaca College
Dr. Janet Galván (she/her) has inspired and empowered choral conductors, singers, and educators worldwide through her innovative approach to programming, rehearsal, and performance. As former Director of Choral Activities at Ithaca College, she helped invigorate the choral art with creativity, artistry, and heart. A sought-after guest conductor and clinician, Dr. Galván has led professional, university, and honor ensembles across the United States for ACDA, NAfME, and OAKE. Recognized as one of the nation’s leading conducting teachers, her students have earned national acclaim and now serve as conductors and educators in universities and professional choirs throughout the country. She founded Ithaca Children’s Chorus.
Dr. Bryan Powell
Associate Professor, Montclair State University
Bryan Powell is Associate Professor of Music Education and Music Technology at Montclair State University and the Chief Program Officer for Music Will. Bryan serves as the Executive Director of the Association for Popular Music Education and is the Chair of the ISME Popular Music Education Special Interest Group. He is the founding co-editor of the Journal of Popular Music Education, co-author of Popular Music Pedagogies: A Practical Guide for Music Teachers (Routledge), series co-editor for Contemporary Music Making and Learning (Intellect Books), and editor of The Modern Band Handbook (OUP).
“I am pleased to be a part of the VEST community. VEST’s work reminds us that singing is for everyone. Through their inclusive and research-informed approach, and their commitment to access, inclusion, and genre diversity, VEST ensures that ensemble singing remains both a creative outlet and a catalyst for well-being.”
Dr. André de Quadros
Professor, Boston University
Dr. André de Quadros is an internationally acclaimed conductor, music educator, ethnomusicologist, and human-rights activist whose work spans more than forty countries. Professor at Boston University, his projects unite music with social justice, peacebuilding, and community transformation. He has led ensembles including Common Ground Voices, VOICES 21C, and the Muslim Choral Ensemble, working in prisons, refugee camps, and conflict zones worldwide. A prolific author and editor, his publications explore music’s role in equity, healing, and cultural understanding. Through his visionary leadership, Dr. de Quadros continues to redefine the boundaries of choral music as a force for human connection.
Dr. André Thomas
Visiting Professor of Conducting and Interim Conductor of the Yale Camerata
London Symphony Orchestra Associate Artist
André J. Thomas is an internationally renowned conductor, composer, educator, and clinician whose career has inspired generations of singers and teachers across the globe. He currently serves as Visiting Professor of Conducting and Interim Conductor of the Yale Camerata and the London Symphony Orchestra. He is Professor Emeritus of Music at Florida State University, where he served as Director of Choral Activities for over three decades. Dr. Thomas has conducted major orchestras and choirs throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa and is celebrated for his artistry, leadership, and commitment to equity, education, and the transformative power of choral music.
Dr. John Warren
Director and Professor, Setnor School of Music
Syracuse University
Dr. John F. Warren (he/him) is Professor of Music and Director of the Setnor School of Music at Syracuse University, where he conducts choirs, teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in conducting and choral literature, and serves on the Dean’s Leadership Team. During his tenure, Syracuse choirs have performed at multiple ACDA conferences, toured internationally, and won the Grand Prix at the 2015 Florilège Vocal de Tours in France. He is a frequent guest conductor with Symphoria and has led choirs across the United States, Europe, South America, and Cuba. Honored as New York ACDA Choral Director of the Year in 2016, Warren also serves on ACDA’s Standing Committee on International Activities and as Vice President of New York ACDA.