by Greig Ashurst
Greig Ashurst
National Board President
As I begin my final year of a six-year term on the national board of Handbell Musicians of America, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey this organization has taken—and the privilege it has been to walk alongside it.
From my vantage point as board president, I’ve witnessed firsthand the tremendous evolution of HMA. While change can sometimes be difficult to perceive from our individual corners of the handbell world, the strides we’ve made together have been significant. Our mission to grow the organization and elevate the visibility and appeal of handbells—both in the United States and abroad—has never been more vital.
At the outset of my term, HMA faced unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. We were fortunate to have Ed Rollins step in as interim executive director during that critical time. His leadership and steady hand were instrumental in helping the organization weather the storm, and for that, we remain deeply grateful.
One of the most impactful decisions our board made was hiring our current executive director, Linda Onorevole. Linda’s expertise in nonprofit leadership and her thoughtful approach to board collaboration have helped HMA not only recover but also thrive in the years following the pandemic. Together with the previous board—on which I served as president-elect—we worked diligently with Linda to craft a vision for growth and to create new opportunities for people to connect through handbells.
I want to take a moment to recognize two extraordinary individuals who have served alongside me since that earlier board and continue to do so today: Tracey Bowers and Gillian Erlenborn. Their dedication, insight,
and humanity have been a constant source
of inspiration.
Tracey brings a rare combination of careful attention to detail, financial expertise, dry humor, and deep institutional knowledge. Her contributions to the board’s work—often behind the scenes—are invaluable. We simply would not be where we are today without her.
Gillian’s energy and wit infuse our board discussions with fresh perspective. As a fellow middle school educator, she has played a key role in bridging the gap between handbells and the classroom, bringing this art form to a new generation of students. I deeply appreciate her passion for education and her advocacy for handbells in schools.
Tracey and Gillian, along with the rest of the current board, are tirelessly shaping the future of HMA. Our other at-large members—Lynn Atkins, Dave Harris, and Kath Wissinger—bring a wealth of experience and diverse viewpoints from across the handbell spectrum. Each member, whether serving as an educator, church musician, soloist, composer, or community ensemble leader, is deeply committed to meeting the needs of our wider membership.
I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our president-elect, Kathryn Jurado. Her insight, dedication, and forward-thinking leadership give me great confidence in HMA’s future. As I prepare to pass the baton, I know the organization will be in capable and visionary hands.
So, who will serve on the next board? I encourage all members to stay engaged—read Overtones, follow Linda’s weekly emails, and participate in the upcoming elections. Every member should read carefully and learn about each candidate and what they may be able to do for HMA. HMA is fortunate to have so many passionate individuals willing to serve in a variety of capacities. Whether at the state, Area, or national level, your voice matters. Your experience, perspective, and commitment are essential to helping HMA continue to grow and thrive.
Thank you for allowing me to serve. It has been one of the great honors of my professional life.
As I begin my final year of a six-year term on the national board of Handbell Musicians of America, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey this organization has taken—and the privilege it has been to walk alongside it.
From my vantage point as board president, I’ve witnessed firsthand the tremendous evolution of HMA. While change can sometimes be difficult to perceive from our individual corners of the handbell world, the strides we’ve made together have been significant. Our mission to grow the organization and elevate the visibility and appeal of handbells—both in the United States and abroad—has never been more vital.
At the outset of my term, HMA faced unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. We were fortunate to have Ed Rollins step in as interim executive director during that critical time. His leadership and steady hand were instrumental in helping the organization weather the storm, and for that, we remain deeply grateful.
One of the most impactful decisions our board made was hiring our current executive director, Linda Onorevole. Linda’s expertise in nonprofit leadership and her thoughtful approach to board collaboration have helped HMA not only recover but also thrive in the years following the pandemic. Together with the previous board—on which I served as president-elect—we worked diligently with Linda to craft a vision for growth and to create new opportunities for people to connect through handbells.
I want to take a moment to recognize two extraordinary individuals who have served alongside me since that earlier board and continue to do so today: Tracey Bowers and Gillian Erlenborn. Their dedication, insight,
and humanity have been a constant source
of inspiration.
Tracey brings a rare combination of careful attention to detail, financial expertise, dry humor, and deep institutional knowledge. Her contributions to the board’s work—often behind the scenes—are invaluable. We simply would not be where we are today without her.
Gillian’s energy and wit infuse our board discussions with fresh perspective. As a fellow middle school educator, she has played a key role in bridging the gap between handbells and the classroom, bringing this art form to a new generation of students. I deeply appreciate her passion for education and her advocacy for handbells in schools.
Tracey and Gillian, along with the rest of the current board, are tirelessly shaping the future of HMA. Our other at-large members—Lynn Atkins, Dave Harris, and Kath Wissinger—bring a wealth of experience and diverse viewpoints from across the handbell spectrum. Each member, whether serving as an educator, church musician, soloist, composer, or community ensemble leader, is deeply committed to meeting the needs of our wider membership.
I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our president-elect, Kathryn Jurado. Her insight, dedication, and forward-thinking leadership give me great confidence in HMA’s future. As I prepare to pass the baton, I know the organization will be in capable and visionary hands.
So, who will serve on the next board? I encourage all members to stay engaged—read Overtones, follow Linda’s weekly emails, and participate in the upcoming elections. Every member should read carefully and learn about each candidate and what they may be able to do for HMA. HMA is fortunate to have so many passionate individuals willing to serve in a variety of capacities. Whether at the state, Area, or national level, your voice matters. Your experience, perspective, and commitment are essential to helping HMA continue to grow and thrive.
Thank you for allowing me to serve. It has been one of the great honors of my professional life.
Greig Ashurst
National Board President
