The American Harp Society (AHS) has appointed harpist Megan Sesma as its next executive director. Sesma will begin her new role on Oct. 1, 2026, succeeding Kathryn McManus, the first executive director of the AHS, who will retire at the end of 2026 after almost 12 years with the organization.
“As someone whose life and career have been profoundly shaped by the American Harp Society, I am honored to accept this appointment,” Sesma says in an AHS press release. “The AHS has long been a source of connection, inspiration, and opportunity for harpists across the country. I look forward to working alongside our members, volunteers, donors, and partners to build upon the Society’s strong foundation and ensure its continued growth and impact for future generations.”
AHS President Steve Moss says the organization and its Board of Directors are delighted to welcome Sesma to her new role. “Megan’s deep understanding of our organization, combined with her proven leadership experience and commitment to the harp community, make her exceptionally well qualified to lead AHS into its next chapter,” he says.
Sesma is a performer, educator, arts administrator, and nonprofit leader who brings experience in strategic planning, fundraising, organizational leadership, and community engagement. She currently serves as first vice president of the AHS and chair of the Society’s Development and Fundraising Committee, and she has helped shape the organization’s future through her leadership of both the AHS 2020–2025 and 2025–2030 Strategic Plans. Sesma’s previous service to the AHS spans more than a decade and includes roles as regional director for the Northeast Region, second vice president, grants program committee member, and chapter leader. Throughout her tenure, she has worked closely with volunteers, chapters, and national leadership to strengthen the Society’s programs and long-term sustainability.
Beyond the AHS, Sesma serves as director of operations for ArtistWorld, artist liaison and operations manager for the Festival International de Musique Saint-Georges, and development and fundraising fellow for the Community Healing Network. Her professional experience also includes more than 20 years of leadership and operational management with the United States Coast Guard, where she has overseen strategic initiatives, personnel development, budgeting, procurement, education programs, and large-scale event operations. She became the first enlisted principal harp of the U.S. Coast Guard Band in 2003 and is preparing to retire after over two decades of service.
A graduate of the Eastman School of Music, the University of Rochester, the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music, and New York University, Sesma also holds an MBA with a concentration in Business Administration and Arts Innovation. She is currently participating in the Sphinx LEAD arts management executive program and recently completed the Encore Connecticut nonprofit executive development program.
Founded in 1962, the American Harp Society is dedicated to promoting the harp and advancing the art of harp playing through education, performance, community engagement, and support for harpists of all ages and levels.
