This month we will get an opportunity to meet one of the members of the Board of Directors, Jack Veerman. I was pleased to get an opportunity to speak with Jack for a few minutes – and hopefully, I can convey the kind and gentle demeanor that Jack portrays to all of you.

Jack first joined the Board of Directors in 2000, when he and his wife Bibby moved to the Waterbury area permanently. We can all thank longtime board/staff member, Carol Gilbert, for getting Jack involved at that time.

Jack is currently retired, but used to work for himself as an importer and distributor of several different products, including glass and ceramic tile. His home was in Manhattan, but due to the nature of his business he spent a lot of time on the road traveling.

When I asked him about his interest in music, Jack said that he has enjoyed music for as long as he can remember – recalling his time in college as an especially instrumental aspect of gaining his interest in it. This led to his joining the Board of Directors of the choral group, Musica Sacra. Of course, we are glad to see him as a member of our board now!

Jack and Bibby have a total of four children, living across the country, from San Francisco to Boston. So, I am sure he still gets to do a fair amount of traveling to keep up with the kids.

When I asked Jack what he enjoys the most about being involved with the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra, he talked about bringing the enjoyment of music to his friends and neighbors. He has always enjoyed bringing friends to our concerts, and introducing them to the Waterbury Symphony.

Be sure to thank Jack at our next concert for all that he has done for our organization!