Savannah VOICE Festival (SVF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jane Gilchrist to the Board of Directors, whose role and expertise will help support the organization’s mission to create a community where classical vocal excellence is accessible to all.  The 13^th annual Festival took place from August 7 – 17, 2025.

Gilchrist holds a bachelor's degree in political science and a master's degree in library science and lived in Washington, D.C. for forty years. She devoted a long career at the Library of Congress, focusing on material for children and young adults and representing the Library at national and international meetings, on subject matter committees and on emerging digital projects. Gilchrist also worked as a project manager for the inaugural National Book Festival, helped craft a program providing philanthropic opportunities for young professionals interested in the Library’s work within the development office and managed the Library’s exhibit booth.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jane Gilchrist to the Festival’s Board of Directors,” said Evelina Erickson, Executive Director of the Savannah VOICE Festival. “Her lifelong commitment to the arts, deep understanding of cultural programming and hands-on experience as a supporter and audience advocate make her an invaluable addition to our leadership team.” 

Gilchrist was introduced to music as a child in the 1950s and was particularly captivated by the power of unamplified voice in opera. She spent years mastering several instruments not only to perform but also to become a knowledgeable and appreciative member of the audience, something Gilchrist believes is critical to the arts. After moving to Savannah in 2018, Gilchrist soon became an enthusiastic supporter of the Festival, and she enjoyed the salon performances at the Davenport House, where her relationship with the organization began. Following the 2019 Festival, Gilchrist met with Co-founders Maria Zouves and Sherrill Milnes and stewarded the development and workshopping of "Cinderella's Royal Feast." She continues to advocate for the creation of new works and is currently supporting the preparation for the opera adaption’s world premiere in the 2025 Festival. 

“Jane brings a fresh perspective and a forward-thinking mindset that encourages us to think creatively as leaders,” said the board’s Co-Chairperson Toby Hollenberg. “Her involvement helps broaden our understanding of what leadership in the arts can look like, and why diversity of voice is essential to the growth of our organization. We are delighted and most appreciative of her involvement with the Savannah VOICE Festival.”

Gilchrist is also the principal sponsor of SVF’s Master Class series, which is offered free and open to the public. Her dedication to this program stems from a deep belief in the power of shared learning. Even as a passionate audience member, Gilchrist continues to explore her personal connection to music. Recently, she joined the choir at the Presbyterian Church, embracing the joy of singing and reflecting her belief that music matters at all stages of life. 

“I was honored to be invited to join the Milnes VOICE Programs Board of Directors because of the impact the organization is having on the Arts in Savannah and the broader world of voice,” said Gilchrist. “Behind the scenes, the board works hard to make mentoring and performance opportunities happen and I am pleased to be part of that effort.”  

Savannah VOICE Festival is a 501(c) 3 tax exempt nonprofit arts organization in the state of Georgia. The Festival brings classical vocal excellence to the Savannah area through a two-week celebration of concerts, events and educational presentations during the month of August and throughout the year. Focusing on arts awareness and audience development in the performing arts, it offers music from opera, musical theatre and popular song. The Savannah VOICE Festival is supported in part by the Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly. GCA is a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Donations are tax-deductible. 

For more information about the Savannah VOICE Festival or to buy tickets please visit www.savannahvoicefestival.org or call 855-766-7372.