Inland Northwest Opera welcomes new executive director

Inland Northwest Opera has announced Summer Ward will lead the local nonprofit as its new executive director.

Ward is a lyric soprano who received a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Northern Colorado.

Rooted in the belief that music brings both healing and connection, Ward has dedicated her career to education, therapeutic innovation and arts advocacy. She is thrilled to work with Inland Northwest Opera's talented team members and build on the legacy they have developed.

Having previously toured with Opera Classica Europa, Ward also plays five instruments and recorded an independent folk album in 2022.

In 2012, she shifted her career focus to health care and received a master’s degree in music therapy from Colorado State University. She developed the first music therapy program within an in-patient psychiatric hospital, serving hundreds of diverse clients, and has since moved into administrative arts and culture programming.

With a comprehensive range of experiences and expertise, the performing arts are the centric foundation to Ward’s passion and vision. She is excited to return to her operatic roots and contribute to a thriving arts culture in the region.