Member-Powered Leadership

One of many factors that distinguishes Sweet Adelines International from other musical organizations is that each Chorus is  member-led. The Chorus Management Team, Director's Music Team and other key Project Chair and Task Force roles are essential components of organizational success, and provide our members with rich volunteer-based opportunities for personal and professional growth at a local, regional and international level.

Chorus Management Team

The Chorus Management Team provides strategic guidance in support of Chorus governance, business and operational functions. 

Director's Music ​Team

The Director's Music Team plays an essential role in bringing the Director's musical and creative vision to life in all aspects of Chorus life.

Master Director
​Kathleen Hansen

Kathleen joined the San Diego Chapter of Sweet Adelines in 2000, and achieved the level of Master Director in 2015 while directing the San Diego Chorus on the International stage. Kathleen holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education and a Master's of Music in Instrumental Conducting and a teaching credential for secondary education in music from San Diego State University. Recently she was honored to join the Sweet Adelines International Faculty in a 3-year teaching appointment.

Kathleen is known for her mindful, positive approach to coaching that helps choruses, leadership teams and vocalists strengthen musical skills, overcome barriers and perform at their best. Kathleen leads multiple San Diego Choruses and is available for clinics, judging, and group or one-on-one coaching virtually and onsite.

​Awards, Honors and Accomplishments

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2001 International Chorus Champions

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL

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2018 Golden West Region 21 Champions

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL GOLDEN WEST REGION 21

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1975 International Chorus Champions

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL

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2016 Golden West Region 21 Champions

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL GOLDEN WEST REGION 21

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Leah Rippetoe, Assistant Director
Leah Rippetoe is the Assistant Director and Lead Section Leader of the San Diego Chorus. She was recently honored as the Sweet Adeline of the Year in 2019. Leah has been a Certified Director since 2009 and recently served on the 75th Anniversary Task Force for Sweet Adelines International. Leah joined the San Diego Chorus in 2016 and has been a  Sweet Adelines International member for 21 years. Leah has been a member of SAI in Regions 8, 11 and 4. She currently sings lead in the quartet Flirtini, and has been a participant in multiple quartets throughout her chorus career. Singing and performing have always been a big part of Leah’s life with her strong background in musical theater, dance and choreography.  When she is not singing with the San Diego Chorus, you will find Leah singing with her praise band at church.
 Kim Vaughn, Past Director 
Kim Vaughn served as musical director of the San Diego Chorus from 1985 - 2014. She led the chorus to International Championships in 1978 and 2001. She is a Sweet Adelines Master Faculty Member, a Champion Director and Region 21 Hall of Fame winner. Kim remains an active member of the San Diego Chorus. Kim's renowned accomplishments in competitive Barbershop include receiving the 2014 Sweet Adelines International Lifetime Achievement Award and a Master Director 700 designation. As 3-Time International Quartet Champion, she has performed with High Society, Savvy and most recently A Cappella Gold. Kim is a Master Faculty Member of Sweet Adelines International and a Certified Sound Judge. She holds a Masters' degree in Vocal Pedagogy from San Diego State University and is available for coaching and judging.

Member Awards

The San Diego Chorus honors the efforts of our Membership with annual Member Awards. With awards spanning all types of service, growth and accomplishments, it's a great opportunity to celebrate the tremendous talent, commitment and hard work that our Members put forth at each and every interaction. 

As member of Sweet Adelines International, The San Diego Chorus is also eligible as a chorus for regional and international awards, and our quartets compete annually. In addition to serving our own chorus, Members often serve the larger membership in a variety of appointments.

Region 21
​Golden West

The San Diego Chorus is part of the Golden West Region 21 of Sweet Adelines International. The Regional Management Team oversees events and management for choruses in Region 21, including Spring Convention, Competition, education events and workshops.

Sweet Adelines
​International

The San Diego Chorus​ is an award-winning chapter of Sweet Adelines International. Sweet Adelines was founded in 1945 and is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the unique sound of a cappella barbershop harmony and empowering women.