BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. Patricia Vardin, President
Patricia Vardin is co-founder of the Sarasota Bay Chamber Orchestra. Previously, she co-founded the New Amsterdam Symphony Orchestra and served on the Board of Directors for the American Chamber Orchestra in New York City. An accomplished violinist, she has performed with numerous orchestras including the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra; Broadway Bach; the Litha Orchestra, and the New Amsterdam Symphony Orchestra. For more than 20 years Dr. Vardin has been an Associate Professor and Chairperson in Education at Manhattanville College, during which time she received a Life Time Achievement Award from Who’s Who.
Kathleen Smith, Vice President
Kathy has over 20 years of experience in all aspects of business. She earned her BS degree in Mathematics and Secondary Education, and achieved a MSEE degree in Computer Systems Engineering. For over 20 years, Kathy worked as an engineer and in product management, responsible for all aspects of product development from development to marketing, training and sales. Her experiences in education, engineering, and business have provided her with the tools necessary to be a strong supporter to the SBCO.
Betsy Marx, Treasurer
For more than 30 years, Betsy Marx has been involved in the performing arts, both as a performer (choral singer), finance administrator or treasurer, and/or board member of various musical organizations in New York City and Sarasota including Cantori NY; The Cecilia Chorus and Orchestra (NYC); Gloria Musicae; Sarasota’s Professional Chorus, and Belle Canto, Sarasota’s Women’s Vocal Ensemble.
Carol Stern, Secretary
Carol Stern has over 45 years of experience working in educational publishing, video, recording, software design and production. Ms. Stern has collaborated with author/educators in the development of essential programs for children. She has created over one hundred educational products sold in the United States, Canada, South Africa, Singapore and South Korea. As a member of The National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Education Market Association, Ms. Stern has coordinated multiple workshops, presentations and shows. Ms. Stern’s is a member of the Baldwin Educational Assembly, where she previously served as Secretary and President.
Kathryn Debenetti
Kathryn earned a degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Toronto and George Brown College. She ran a successful Dental Hygiene program for 25 years as business manager and practitioner. Kathryn has been a long time supporting member of the Shaw Festival in Canada, which runs a variety of musical productions and plays throughout the year. Kathryn is also an accomplished and prize winning equestrian.