Gathering With Purpose
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, Seraphic Fire’s Board of Directors and staff met for a half-day retreat at the Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Performing Arts Center on the campus of FIU. Board Chair Diane Ashley and Executive Director Danny M. Yanez, Ed.D., CFRE, led the day. The goal was simple and important: come together, reflect on our progress, and align on the work ahead. The retreat opened with a heartfelt tribute to board member Mel VanderBrug, whose love for Seraphic Fire and steadfast support continue to inspire our community. His memory set a thoughtful tone for the day.
The conversation that followed was engaged, practical, and focused on impact. Board members shared observations from the season so far, asked thoughtful questions, and offered clear ideas to support the organization’s growth. Staff leaders provided high-level updates across core areas, and the group aligned on near-term priorities that strengthen our mission and the experience we offer to audiences and students across South Florida.
Strength in Governance, Mission, and Community
The retreat reinforced what makes Seraphic Fire a strong nonprofit. Our board is active and involved. They attend rehearsals and performances, invite friends, and serve as ambassadors in their communities. They think carefully about the mission and steward resources with care. They advocate for the artistic excellence that defines Seraphic Fire and for the education programs that introduce young people to world-class choral music.
Directors and staff reviewed audience engagement trends, community partnerships, and opportunities to welcome more listeners to our concerts in Miami, Coral Gables, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Naples. The team also discussed how to enhance the concert experience from the first touch to the final ovation. Clarity, hospitality, and excellent communication matter. So do acoustics and the sense of occasion that comes with attending a Seraphic Fire performance. All of this supports a simple goal: create meaningful musical experiences that bring people together.
Education remained front and center. Seraphic Fire’s youth work continues to connect classrooms with professional artists, building confidence, curiosity, and a love of singing. Board members shared stories that highlighted why this matters, from students discovering their voice to teachers seeing teamwork grow through music. That alignment around our mission gives our work energy and purpose.
Looking Ahead Together
The second half of the retreat focused on practical next steps. The Board affirmed a clear path for the season and encouraged the team to continue refining how we welcome new audiences, communicate with patrons, and celebrate the artists who make Seraphic Fire special. This includes maintaining a smooth and personalized subscription experience. Our Box Office fulfills season subscriptions and assigns seats with care so loyal patrons can enjoy the locations they love and new subscribers can settle in comfortably.
The Board also reflected on culture, the way we work together, how we show up for artists, and how we serve our community. Members participated in a short storytelling exercise, sharing moments of pride from recent months. Themes emerged: resilience, artist care, education, and community impact. The room felt optimistic and focused. Seraphic Fire is moving forward with confidence because many hands are working in the same direction.
We are grateful to our Board Chair, our directors, our artist representatives, and our staff, who made the day productive. Their time and leadership help Seraphic Fire bring world-class choral music to South Florida and expand programs that serve students and educators.
Be Part of the Season
Seraphic Fire exists because a dedicated community believes in the power of great music. If you are new to Seraphic Fire, this is an excellent time to join us. Tickets for concerts across Miami, Coral Gables, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Naples are available now, and many dates are already moving quickly. Season subscriptions remain the best value for experiencing multiple programs throughout the year. Reserve your seats at seraphicfire.org/tickets or call 305.285.9060.
Thank you to our board, artists, patrons, and partners for your support. We look forward to welcoming you to an upcoming performance and sharing another season of exceptional choral music together.
