The Boston Gay Men’s Chorus has appointed Craig B. Coogan as its Executive Director. Coogan will begin his tenure with the BGMC on October 1.
Coogan is currently serving as the first full-time Executive Director at One Voice Mixed Chorus in Minnesota. Coogan has a robust expertise in developing strategies and programs to help GLBTQ and other nonprofit organizations achieve their operational and artistic goals. Craig brings experience in both the for-profit and non-profit arenas. He was a founding board member and served for ten years as Treasurer of the acclaimed Women’s choral group Vox Femina Los Angeles. He has produced independent movies and several award-winning documentaries and acclaimed original plays.
“We are thrilled to welcome Craig to the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus family,” said Laura De Veau, President of the BGMC Board of Directors and chairperson of the Executive Director Search Committee. “From the moment the members of the Search Committee met Craig, we knew he has the qualities that the BGMC needs to build on our past success. Craig brings with him fundraising, operational and arts management experiences as well as a fresh perspective.”
“I am honored to join the BGMC, one of this country’s premiere arts and social change organizations. I look forward to working with the nearly 200 members who volunteer their time and talents in creating a more tolerant society through the power of music,” said, Coogan.
Since July of 2011, the Chorus has been led by John Strumwasser, a founding member of the Chorus, who assumed the role of Interim Executive Director following the departure of Steven Smith, who joined Revels, Inc. in February of 2011 after 16 years with the BGMC.
“The Board of Directors would like to thank John Strumwasser for his leadership during this time of transition. He has done an exceptional job maneuvering the intricacies of this multi-faceted organization and leading our team,” De Veau stated.
Coogan is a graduate of Syracuse University and a native of Southborough, Massachusetts. The BGMC is thrilled to welcome him home to Boston.
The Boston Gay Men’s Chorus is one of New England’s largest and most successful community-based choruses. Now in its 31st season, the 175-voice ensemble is celebrated for its outstanding musicianship, creative programming, and groundbreaking community outreach. Under the dynamic leadership of Music Director Reuben M. Reynolds III, the BGMC sings a wide spectrum of classical and popular music with excellence and builds bridges to all people by providing a positive, affirming image of the gay and lesbian community. Each year the Chorus offers a subscription concert series of three programs, performed in the city’s most prestigious venues including Jordan Hall, the Cutler Majestic Theatre, and Symphony Hall. The Chorus is heard live by more than 12,000 people each season and thousands more through recordings and television broadcasts. The Boston Business Journal consistently ranks the BGMC in its list of the top 25 performing arts organizations in greater Boston.
