Sounds Academy Leadership Additions for FY2023

We here at SOUNDS Academy are excited to announce additions to our leadership this fiscal year! Selma Babic and Jon Finch have recently joined the existing Board of Directors and Committees to help us succeed. Below we learn some fun facts about each of them and why they choose to support SOUNDS Academy.

Selma Babic – Board Member

Selma has a Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management from Arizona State University and an MBA from the University of Arizona. Selma currently works in the Aerospace industry within Supply Chain. Music has always played a big role in her upbringing. She was involved in her school’s Concert Band, Marching Band and Symphony Orchestra. She also performed in the Regional and All-state Bands.

What is your favorite instrument to play?
A: Flute – played for 8 years.

What superhero would you be and why?
A: She-Hulk. She showed perseverance and resilience despite difficulties thrown her way.

What character value resonates with you the most?
Perseverance. Having a determination and going after your goals no matter what life throws at you.

What quote has impacted you the most?
A: “Whatever anybody says or does, assume positive intent. You will be amazed at how your whole approach to a person or problem becomes very different” – Indra Nooyi.

Jon Finch – Board Member

Jon Finch is a public finance attorney at Kutak Rock LLP, and his  practice primarily focuses on financing large multifamily affordable housing projects across the country. He has practiced law since 2017 and was an educator prior to attending law school. Jon taught sixth grade in South Phoenix for six years and taught undergraduates for a year at Grand Canyon University. Serving in the classroom fostered Jon’s desire to increase opportunities for disadvantaged children. Because of his belief in the power and importance of music, he is excited by the chance to join the SOUNDS board and be part of an organization providing opportunities for children who deserve musical exposure and education. Jon lives in Phoenix with his wife (Holly) and two sons (Arthur – 4 years old; Simon – 2).

What makes you passionate about music education?
A: Music is powerful and has the ability to truly enrich lives. Music education not only provides students with an artistic outlet and music skills. Music teaches children responsibility and discipline, develops numerous skills that are transferrable to education and employment, and provides children with meaningful life experiences.

What drew you to SOUNDS Academy specifically?
A: I believe in the mission and am excited by the amazing things SOUNDS Academy is doing. SOUNDS Academy gives students opportunities and exposure that they deserve in a way that has the potential to transform their lives. 

We are all music lovers here! Tell us about the live music you enjoy?
A: I generally prefer to see bluegrass and folk artists, but (almost) all live music is great. Nothing enhances a social environment like live music.

Tell us something interesting about yourself?
A: Interesting… hmmm. I  think I left interesting traits/facts in my youth. When I was in second grade, I slapped Charles Barkley on his bald head pursuant to the advice of Frank Johnson (a lesser known but talented player that played with Barkley on the Suns).

For more information about our board or to fill out and Engagement Survey, please visit soundsacademy.org/board.