The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) proudly announces its newly elected Board officers for the 2025–2026 season, ushering in the 16th season with a dynamic team committed to amplifying the chorus’s mission and impact. Stepping into the role of Board Chair is Kerry Waldee, a retired dentist, philanthropist, and passionate LGBTQ+ advocate whose thoughtful leadership and community engagement are rooted in decades of service and support. Joining him on the Board Executive Committee are Bradley Bush, Vice Chair, a respected realtor and longtime choral leader; and Michael Foley, a retired Partner at KPMG, who continues to serve as Treasurer, providing trusted financial stewardship and strategic oversight.
Kerry also welcomes new board member appointees Nick Dryfuse, a Navy veteran and senior executive at Universal Destinations and Experiences, who will serve as the board’s Secretary; Nancy Kohlreiter, the Senior Director of Product Management for Purpose Brands, LLC., and Fernando Brierley, Chorus Representative.
Remaining on the board are dedicated advocates: Mayor Judy Paul (Town of Davie), Commissioner Paul Rolli (City of Wilton Manors), Dr. William E. Gannon, Jr. (Capital City Tech Consulting), Tom Nichols (Arcus Foundation), Ronni Arden (Arden Forensics), Johnnie Mejia (local business leader), Bill Spinosa (Center for Practice Excellence), and Jonathan Sanz (Chorus President).
Also continuing on the board is Erick Eldridge, Director of Special Events at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, who has been selected Chair for GMCSF’s signature fundraiser, The Chic & Unique Ball, taking place November 1 at Hard Rock. This year’s theme, Step Into Burlesque, promises an evening of bold entertainment and fierce celebration. Details and tickets are available at thechicanduniqueball.com.
The Chorus extends heartfelt appreciation to Fred Boykin, who concludes eight years of distinguished service, including three as Board Chair. Among his many contributions, Fred was the visionary behind The Chic & Unique Ball, now one of South Florida’s most anticipated LGBTQ+ fundraising galas. His leadership helped GMCSF expand its reach, strengthen community ties, and chart a vibrant artistic path.
As the Chorus begins Season 16, this refreshed board of directors stands ready to champion visibility, inclusion, and music that changes hearts. GMCSF remains devoted to its mission: We sing so that LGBTQ+ people can live their truth through quality music experiences that inspire audiences, open minds, change hearts, and affirm our common humanity.
ABOUT THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA (GMCSF)
GMCSF is a vibrant community of voices, blending generations and cultures in harmony with one mission: to shape a brighter, more inclusive future through music. GMCSF stands as a powerful force for advocacy, using the universal language of music to transcend social barriers and uplift the LGBTQ+ community. With a roster of over 180 talented singers, GMCSF is the largest gay men’s chorus in the southeastern United States and one of the top ten LGBTQ+ choruses in the country. Our grand-scale concerts, meaningful community engagements, and volunteer-driven outreach touch lives throughout South Florida and beyond. Under the direction of Artistic Director Gabe Salazar, GMCSF captivates annually more than 35,000 live audience members while welcoming over 72,000 visitors to its growing digital platform, gmcsf.org.
A significant milestone was reached in December 2016 when GMCSF partnered with Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood to present its holiday concert at Hard Rock Live. What began as a landmark event has evolved into a dynamic nine-year partnership rooted in music, visibility, and community impact. Today, Seminole Hard Rock continues to amplify its mission as the Amplified Season Sponsor and host of The Chic & Unique Ball, its signature fundraiser. Visit thechicanduniqueball.com to learn about this year’s theme, Step Into Burlesque, and celebrate a partnership that continues to grow.
Chorus President Jonathan Sanz is also proud to introduce the new leadership team for Season 16 which will include Michael Ping, Vice President; Marcus Saitschenko, Secretary; Bill Spinosa, VP of Membership; John Lewis, VP of Diversity, Equity, Belonging & Inclusion; Eric Alayón, VP of Community Outreach; Fernando Brierley, Board Representative; Larry Small, Financial Administrator; and Reynaldo Araque, Craig Dannenbrink, Richard Fulks, Kenny Lewis, and Ginny McCulloh as Section Administrators.
The Chorus welcomes singers of all identities who sing in the lower vocal range (Tenor 1, Tenor 2, Baritone, Bass), with auditions held throughout the season. Our impact reaches from Miami Heat and Miami Marlins Pride Nights to the International Gay Polo Tournament in Wellington, driven by the heart and dedication of our volunteers. Whether on stage or in service, GMCSF stands united in building bridges and creating space where everyone can live their truth. Join us and be a part of the harmony shaping South Florida’s future.
Content Courtesy of Edward Otto Zielke, Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida
