We are over the moon to welcome Megan Sesma to our leadership team starting October 2026, when she will begin her onboarding process as longtime Executive Director Kathy McManus prepares for her retirement. Kathy leaves some big shoes to fill, but we are confident that Megan's background, experience, and strengths will guide the American Harp Society into an exciting new era.
Please enjoy this interview with Megan Sesma.
[American Harp Society] Please share a bit of what the AHS has meant to you as a harpist through the years.
[Megan Sesma] The AHS has been part of my musical journey since I began studying the harp at age 10. Throughout my years as a student and young professional, I had teachers who were deeply involved with the Society at both the chapter and national levels, while others participated in different capacities. Those connections shaped my experience as a harpist, providing a strong sense of community, mentorship, and access to resources that influenced both my development and performance opportunities.
As a professional, I have found the AHS to be an invaluable resource for me as a performer and educator. Serving as a past Regional Director for the Northeast and on various national committees also allowed me to support the Society's mission and strategic direction while supporting fellow harpists.
[AHS] What drew you to taking a leadership role with the AHS?
[MS] When I first joined the Board of Directors in 2014, I immediately appreciated the camaraderie, professionalism, open communication, and the opportunity to collaborate on behalf of the AHS at the national level.
For more than two decades, I had the privilege of serving the Coast Guard missions while also remaining actively involved with nonprofit organizations at both the local and national levels. Four years ago, I made the intentional decision to transition from military service to arts nonprofit leadership. After serving on the senior leadership team at the Coast Guard Academy, completing an MBA in Arts Innovation and a certificate in nonprofit leadership, and pursuing leadership opportunities in the arts sector, the Executive Director position with the AHS truly felt like a dream opportunity.
[AHS] What are you hoping to bring to the AHS? Do you have any big plans for the organization that you can share?
[MS] I am fortunate to be stepping into an organization led by an extraordinary Board of Directors and Executive Director Kathy McManus, whose leadership has established a strong foundation for the Society. My priority will be to listen, learn, and engage with the Board, committees, chapters, and members to gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives and the initiatives already in progress.
Looking ahead, I look forward to building stronger connections between chapters and the national level, while deepening member engagement and supporting the Society's future. I'm especially excited about initiatives such as a future national AHS development campaign, the AHS Impact and Legacy Funds, and weekly virtual office hours beginning later this fall to create another opportunity for members to connect and share ideas.
[AHS] What would you like members to know about you?
[MS] The mission of the AHS resonates deeply with both my personal values and my own journey as a harpist. I began studying the harp through a public school harp program in Iowa, and I feel incredibly fortunate to now combine my experience as a professional harpist with my background in nonprofit leadership in service of the Society and its members. It's a privilege to support an organization that has meant so much to me throughout my life.
[AHS] What do you think members don't know about the AHS that they should know?
[MS] Many members may not realize just how extensive the Society's offerings are. From The American Harp Journal, grants program, International Harp Archives, chapter leadership training, and the AHS National Competition, to many other member benefits, there is an extraordinary amount of volunteer effort taking place behind the scenes.
Our board members and committee members generously contribute their time, expertise, and passion to strengthen the Society, and I'm incredibly grateful for their commitment. Honoring the rich legacy of the American Harp Society is deeply important to me, while also embracing innovation and ensuring we continue to evolve, modernize, and provide members with the tools, resources, and connections they expect from a 21st-century organization.
Thank you, Megan, for your longtime committment to the organization! Here's to many great years ahead.
