CYT Santa Cruz’s volunteer board of directors oversees our mission, defines strategic direction, sets organizational policy, and safeguards the financial stability of the organization.

Rick Cosentino

Board Chair

My name is Rick Cosentino, and I am honored to serve as the Board Chair for CYT Santa Cruz.
While much of my personal and professional journey has been rooted in athletics, the throughline has always been the same: investing in the next generation. I have seen firsthand the powerful role that structured programs, whether on a field, court, or stage, play in shaping character, building confidence, and fostering meaningful relationships.

I believe environments like CYT are more than extracurricular, they are formative. The stage, much like an athletic arena, becomes a classroom where students learn discipline, teamwork, resilience, and confidence. My commitment as Board Chair is to help ensure that CYT Santa Cruz continues to be a place where students can grow artistically, spiritually, and personally in a supportive and Christ-centered community.  

Barbara Lansdowne

Secretary

Barbara has been a member of the board since 2018. She is a retired prosecutor.

Kevin Miller

Treasurer

Kevin has been a member of the board since 2021 and is the current Treasurer. He works in information technology leading enterprise-level project portfolios for a large pharmaceutical company.

Tracy Barber

Director

Tracy has been a member of the board since 2022. She is a successful small business owner in Santa Cruz.

Sarah Hirshland

Director

Sarah comes to CYT with a passion and career among storytelling and development. With years of experience in non-profit, she's a Santa Cruz native and a lover of all thing's theater. Sarah is driven by community support and dedication, and she thoroughly enjoys connecting people to programs and recourses that make our community stronger.

Kate Brandon

Director

Kate has a diverse background in theatre, education, and public service. She holds a PhD in Theatre from Wayne State University and previously served as a college professor and theatre director at Biola University, where she developed curriculum, directed productions, and led program growth initiatives. Her career also includes experience in education, research, and administrative leadership. Kate brings strengths in planning, communication, and collaborative problem-solving, along with a passion for mentoring young artists and fostering creative communities.