Eugene Braig holds a BS in Environmental Education and an MS in Natural Resources with a focus on Fisheries Biology, both from Ohio State University. While he officially joined CityMusic Columbus in early 2022, Eugene has been a fan and attendee of CityMusic concerts for decades. His passion for service, community, and the arts drives his dedication to the organization.

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Eugene is deeply inspired by music, particularly classical music, and the opportunity to enrich the lives of others through it. Outside of his board service, Eugene spends his time arranging classical music, fishing, exploring nature, and reading, with a special interest in the history of music and instruments. His extensive classical music library, which includes over 5,000 CDs and LPs, is a testament to his love for both the technical and expressive aspects of music.

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Though he has served as Artistic Director for the Columbus Guitar Society for over 20 years, Eugene loves complexity, and enjoys progressive rock and has a special place in his heart for the mandolin—an instrument he considers far more unique than its guitar counterpart!

Gayle Karafil brings a rich background of experience to CityMusic Columbus, from her years as a certified paramedic and medical lab professional to her passion for music. A lifelong musician, Gayle has been singing since she was a toddler, played multiple instruments in school bands, and now performs as a semi-professional singer and acoustic guitarist. She joined CityMusic Columbus in July 2022, combining her love for music and philanthropy in a deeply meaningful way.

After the loss of her partner, Joel, Gayle was inspired to create a lasting legacy in his name by providing guitars and music instruction to at-risk and underserved children. Music, for both Gayle and Joel, was a source of solace and strength, and now she’s committed to sharing that gift with the next generation. Watching children grow through music education is her greatest inspiration, knowing it transforms their lives in profound ways.

In her spare time, Gayle loves performing music and diving into politics—she’s a self-proclaimed nerd who knows more about members of Congress than celebrities! She's also a fan of science fiction, especially Star Trek. Always ready to engage with a crowd, Gayle's fun, charismatic personality shines on stage and off.

Leslie Laufman. a retired physician, holds a BA from Ohio Wesleyan and an MD from the University of Pittsburgh. She has been dedicated to CityMusic Columbus for over 25 years, driven by her belief in the organization’s mission and her commitment to helping make it thrive.

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A lover of good live music, Leslie finds joy and inspiration in supporting the arts. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, painting, playing golf, tennis, and bridge, as well as hiking, swimming, and reading. Leslie’s personal hero is her Lithuanian grandfather, who immigrated to the U.S. at 18, worked in a Pittsburgh steel mill for over 40 years, and became a beloved community figure.

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Though terrified of heights, Leslie’s favorite place in the U.S. is the Grand Canyon, showcasing her adventurous spirit and love for nature.

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Controller, Velocys, Inc.

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​Simone S. Ellerson has worked in the social services field for over 25 years. At an early age, her enjoyment of babysitting led to an interest in early childhood education. She received her

Bachelor of Science degree from The Ohio State University focusing on Family Studies. She is currently pursuing her Master of Public Health with a focus on emerging public health

challenges and breakthroughs. Her work experience includes being a Head Start Teacher, Family Services Advocate, Early Education Classroom Coach, Professional Development

Instructor and Program Administrator of childcare for families transitioning from homelessness to housing. Her current role as an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Central Ohio brings attention to early childhood mental health stigmas along with supporting the needs of caregivers and educators to reach their goals for optimal parenting and developmental outcomes. Simone believes that early education and intervention partnered with empowering families strengthens our communities. She enjoys cheering on her favorite Ohio sports teams, listening to music and attending outdoor festivals.

Do you or someone you know have a passion for music and helping youth in our communities? We would love to add to our board of trustees! Contact us for more information!