The Wally Russell Foundation Announces the Appointment of Van Rommel to the Board

The board of directors of the Wally Russell Foundation announces that Van Rommel has accepted an appointment to the board of directors of the Wally Russell Foundation.

Rommel is director of business development for Pathway Connectivity, a provider of innovative controls, data distribution, and interface products for the audio, lighting, and video production industry. Rommel began his career as a lighting designer and production manager in the entertainment industry for theater, dance, opera, television, film, concert, and special event productions. Prior to joining Pathway, Rommel led regional and national sales and business development efforts for Vari-Lite and then for Strand Lighting.

Notable concert productions included tours by Waylon Jennings, REO Speedwagon, Poco and Poco/Graham Nash/Dave Mason. Television productions included live-to-air news, sports, and entertainment events for ABC, NBC, ESPN, MSG, and Univision.

Special events included numerous presidential appearances, the 1987 Papal visit to San Antonio, the 1990 Houston G7 Summit, Kawaski Motors dealer shows and Buick national sales meetings.

Rommel has coordinated the design, delivery, and installation of large-scale advanced lighting technology installations to Broadway shows, convention and meeting facilities, cruise ships, casino entertainment venues, and performing arts centers.

"We are grateful that Van has accepted the challenge of Board membership for the Wally Russell Fund," commented Tom Folsom, chairman of the board. "We are starting our 25th year of operation and we need a competent, fresh look at our activities, fundraising, and outreach programs."

For further information regarding the Wally Russell Foundation; the Wally Russell Lifetime Achievement Award; the Wally Russell Lighting Intern Program at the Los Angeles Opera and Canadian Opera Company; the Wally Russell Annual Mentoring Award; the Wally Russell Grand Opera Seminars; or to contribute to the Wally Foundation, please contact: Tom Folsom, The Wally Russell Foundation, 16458 Bolsa Chica Street, Suite 221, Huntington Beach, California 92649, USA; phone: 714-699-3573; or wallyfoundation@gmail.com.