Bozeman Symphony Welcomes New Board Leadership and Members

Bozeman, Mont. – The Bozeman Symphony is proud to announce new leadership within its Board of Directors, along with the addition of two accomplished community leaders.

Ken May has been named Board Chair, with Skye Raiser elected as Vice Chair. Former Chair Ben Phinney will continue his service as Chair Emeritus. In addition, Nina Jaeger and Mark Juranek have been elected to serve three-year terms on the Board, effective July 1.

Nina Jaeger is the retired Director of Development at the Montana State University Alumni Foundation. Mark Juranek brings extensive business and financial expertise to the Board, having held leadership roles at Amazon Music, Starbucks, and PricewaterhouseCoopers, as well as experience as a certified public accountant.

“It is an incredible honor to serve as Board Chair of the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra,” said Ken May. “I have deep respect for the extraordinary talent of our musicians, the visionary leadership of our Board, and the exceptional artistry of Maestro Norman Huynh, whose passion and creativity continue to inspire us all. I’m also grateful for the outstanding work of our Executive Director and dedicated staff, whose behind-the-scenes efforts make everything possible. The Symphony is not only a source of world-class music but a vital force that enriches lives and brings our community together. I’m especially thankful to Ben Phinney for leaving the Symphony in such a strong position and for his willingness to remain on the Board to help guide this transition.”

“I’m extremely pleased to welcome our new Board leadership and two outstanding new members,” said Executive Director Jacob Blaser. “Their leadership, professional experience, and passion for music align perfectly with the Bozeman Symphony’s strategic growth plan. Their collaboration will be essential as we continue to inspire diverse audiences. I also want to express my gratitude to Ben Phinney for his exceptional leadership over the past six years, including three as Board Chair—helping guide the Symphony through transformative changes, from navigating the pandemic to conducting a national search for a new Music Director.”

The Bozeman Symphony is governed by a 13-member Board of Directors dedicated to advancing its mission: to engage, unite, and uplift the human experience in Montana through music and the arts. Board members serve as goodwill ambassadors and play a critical role in the organization’s long-term sustainability and success. Their support is reflected in active event participation, personal financial contributions, and advocacy for the Symphony’s programs and impact.

Jaeger and Juranek join a distinguished group of directors, including Architect Paul Bertelli, retired Journalist Tom Bray, retired Chief Science Officer Gary Kunis, Asset Manager Liz Richards, retired Surgeon Dr. Charles Rinker, Insurance Industry CEO Robert Ritchie, Financial Advisor Michael Schmidt, and Higher Education Consultant Sara Jayne Steen.

For more information about the Bozeman Symphony and upcoming performances, visit bozemansymphony.org.

August 1, 2025
Contact: Peggy Stebbins
Office: 406.585.9774
peggy@bozemansymphony.org