Alexandria Symphony Orchestra Announces New Board Leadership as It Celebrates 82 Years; Maestro Ross to Transition to Music Director Laureate
Posted Jul 10, 2025 | ASO News, Press Releases,
Alexandria, VA – The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO) proudly announces a new slate of Executive Board officers as the organization embarks on its 82nd season. Founded in 1943, ASO continues to build upon its artistic legacy and deepen its community impact, highlighted by expansion of their music education program, Sympatico. The upcoming season also marks the final year for Music Director James Ross, who has led the Symphony with imagination and passion since 2018. An internationally respected conductor and educator, Ross brought dynamic vision to ASO’s programming, championing cross-genre collaboration and bold artistic experimentation. His leadership helped reenergize the orchestra and broaden its reach across Alexandria and beyond. The ASO board unanimously named Ross as Music Director Laureate, beginning with the 2026-2027 season.
“This will be a season of both celebration and transition,” said Executive Director George Hanson. “We are so grateful for Jim’s transformative leadership, and we look forward to honoring his contributions while ushering in a new era of artistic and organizational growth.”
In tandem with this transition, ASO welcomes its new Executive Board leadership team:
Noted community leader and classically-trained soprano Laurie MacNamara has been elected Board President to lead the organization through this exciting time. As a retired government and industry IT executive, longtime Alexandrian supporter of the arts, and former president of several Alexandria-area arts organizations including the Alexandria Choral Society and First Night Alexandria, Laurie brings decades of valuable executive experience in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to her leadership role.
Stepping into the role of Vice President is Peter Horst, a veteran Fortune 500 chief marketing officer and global brand strategist. With over 30 years of experience leading major campaigns for companies like Capital One and Hershey, Horst brings a keen strategic vision to ASO’s leadership during a time of growth and innovation.
Former ASO President Melynda Dovel Wilcox will continue to serve in a new capacity as Board Secretary. A writer and editor with deep ties to Alexandria’s civic life, Wilcox has long supported the arts alongside her musically inclined family.
Continuing in his role as Treasurer, Freeman Jelks, a Certified Financial Planner and founder of FNJ 3, brings strong financial expertise and a steadfast commitment to the Symphony’s fiscal health.
“As we look ahead to our 82nd season, the Alexandria Symphony is poised for an exciting future,” said Executive Director George Hanson. “With this dynamic leadership team in place and continued investment in our educational programming, we are building an even more vibrant and inclusive musical community for Alexandria and beyond.”
For more information about the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and its programs, visit www.alexsym.org.
Media Contact:
Sydney Watson, Director of Development and Community Partnerships
703-548-0885
