Robert Emmet Finn is GMCW's new Executive Director

We are delighted to welcome Robert Emmet Finn as the next Executive Director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC, effective October 26, 2026. A longtime GMCW singer, Rob brings nonprofit leadership, a background in theater, and a personal connection to the community he will now help lead.

Rob’s experience spans nonprofit policy advocacy, DC government, and law practice in appellate, criminal, and civil litigation and tenant advocacy. His career began in the arts, working professionally as a theater director, lighting and sound designer, and assistant directing several Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. He also served as a press agent for several high-profile Broadway shows, and handled media relations at Long Wharf Theater and NJPAC. After successfully defending himself in landlord-tenant court, he pursued a career in law.

Most recently, Rob served as Vice President of Policy and Research at a national nonprofit working to improve neighborhoods in disinvested communities. There, he built and led coalitions and networks, partnered with allies and industry to introduce innovative bipartisan legislation, and engaged philanthropic partners to support vital research and advocacy work.

Rob’s connection to GMCW began in 2015. As a member of the Chorus and our Rock Creek Singers ensemble, he has performed in Cuba and Germany, on the steps of the Supreme Court, at the National Cathedral, and the White House.

“I could not be more excited or more honored to take on the Executive Director role at GMCW. For over 45 years, GMCW has stood openly and proudly as a voice for equality and inclusion, and has provided a home and a community for thousands, myself included. Being granted this opportunity is particularly humbling for me as a singing GMCW member for the past 12 seasons. Over that time, the LGBTQIA+ community has achieved so much, and yet so much work still remains. I am grateful to the Board of Directors for entrusting me with such an important role at such a critical time, and look forward to supporting the GMCW membership, uplifting Dr. Thea Kano’s artistic vision, and leading our incredibly dedicated team alongside her,” said Rob.

“We are delighted to welcome Rob Finn as the next Executive Director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC,” said Tomeika Bowden, Chair of the GMCW Board of Directors. “For nearly 50 years, GMCW has used the power of music to lift voices, open hearts, and bring people together. As we prepare for our next chapter, Rob brings the leadership, energy, and passion to help us reach new heights. We look forward to working with him to strengthen our organization, amplify our impact, and ensure that GMCW’s voice continues to resonate throughout our community and beyond. Our next act is just beginning, and we couldn’t be more excited about the music we’ll make together.”

And Artistic Director Thea Kano said, “We are thrilled to welcome Rob Finn as our Executive Director to lead this exciting new chapter for GMCW! Rob’s tremendous leadership and incredible passion will help ensure our continued growth, maximize our impact, and increase our national visibility as together we work toward our 50th anniversary season and beyond.”

A proud native of Jersey City, New Jersey, Rob holds dual U.S./Irish citizenship, and lives in southern Prince George’s County, MD with his husband.

Please join us in welcoming Rob to the GMCW staff!