Board of Directors

Leslie Hendricks – Presidentleslie

Leslie holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Music degree in Music Education. She taught music classes in Alhambra Elementary School District for 30 years, retiring in 2012.  Additionally, Leslie has worked with church choirs and live theater productions as a writer, director and performer. Believing that singing is important for everyone, Leslie serves on the board of International Award-Winning Phoenix Girls Chorus.

sueSue Bartz –Vice President

Sue’s career spans 20 years in the insurance industry and 16 years in the non-profit sector as the Patient Insurance Coordinator for Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix, Arizona.  She has a wealth of knowledge in financial management at the non-profit level and fundraising. Ms. Bartz served on Hospice of the Valley (HOV)’s Ethics Committee for 12 years. “I truly believe that it is always possible to do the right thing for the right reason as was exemplified by HOV’s executive leadership from the top down,” Sue says. “I believe financial decisions grounded in and following this type of ethics model are the right way to conduct business in any organization.”  Sue has been involved with musicians, choirs, choral groups and/or singing in duets or trios and supporting the arts most of her life. Now semi-retired, she works part time at Desert Song Healing Arts Center here in the Valley.

Jim-Alexander-240x300James E. Alexander – Artistic Director

Artistic Director for Valley Women’s Ensemble, Jim is the Business Development Manager for Udall Shumway PLC, located in Mesa, Arizona. Mr. Alexander is a graduate of Grand Canyon University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance. He also attended Ottawa University, obtaining his elementary education certification. Mr. Alexander was previously employed by the Isaac School District where he taught for 6 years. Mr. Alexander has also served in a number of faith communities in the Valley for the past 30 years providing musical and pastoral leadership. It is in these roles that he has reached out into the communities to provide access to quality musical activities and learning opportunities. Mr. Alexander believes that people of all ages should be exposed to a wide variety of the arts within their communities in order to live well-rounded lives.