The Sarasota Players Welcome New Trustees and Appoints Board Officers for the 2024 Fiscal Year

September 25, 2023 – Sarasota

The Sarasota Players announced this week the appointment of its board officers and members for the 2024 fiscal year. With it comes two new additions and several returning members, bringing the board number to ten. 

New trustees, David Sanders and Helen Obst, both bring with them deep professional knowledge as well as a passion for the arts. Sanders has over 30 years of extensive financial expertise with operations, systems, and human resources experience. Most recently, he was the executive responsible for corporate systems, process improvement, operations analysis/reporting and vendor management at MEDHOST and then Essex Management. Prior to that, he held CFO roles for a multinational ATM manufacturer and just prior, a professional services venture-backed company, that Sanders helped sell to a private equity firm. While not currently active, he is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Turnaround Professional.

Helen Obst’s background contains significant experience with over 30 years of work in human resources/governance (employee law, employee relations, policies/procedures, performance management, and training and development). She holds a Master of Science degree in Human Resources and is an Air Force Veteran, in addition to a Florida Rotarian. 

“We’re excited to welcome these talented new trustees to our board. Their unique expertise and love for the theatre make them incredibly valuable additions to our team,” says William Porter, Chair of the board. 

Reappointed as Chair is William Porter, along with Bill Rusling as Vice Chair and Joe Kaminsky as Treasurer. David Sanders, one of the newest members, is appointed Secretary of the board. Other trustees include Barry Godin, Brian McCarthy, and Tom Tollette. Michael Brown and Terry Koslowski will serve on the Advisory Council. 

“This is a wonderful group of people, and we look forward to continuing The Players great legacy in the community. We’re eager for the coming year’s productions and can’t wait for Sarasota to see what we have in store,” says William Porter. 

About The Sarasota Players: The Sarasota Players is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to entertaining, educating and engaging the community through high-quality live theatre. Performances take place year-round and appeal to visitors and locals alike. The Players Studio, the education and outreach department for The Sarasota Players, promotes inclusive learning and upholds the ideals of equality and diversity, while providing a safe environment for students of all ages and abilities.

For more information, please visit www.theplayers.org.