Our Story

Learn about the story of the Santelices Foundation. The Santelices Foundation. Donate today to uplift diverse voices through global arts initiatives.

The Santelices Foundation is dedicated to advancing equity, cultural representation, and artistic excellence through global arts initiatives. We believe that the performing arts are a vital force for connection, empowerment, and social impact. Our work centers on creating inclusive opportunities for artists—particularly emerging vocalists—to develop their craft, engage with diverse cultural traditions, and lead with purpose.

Founded on principles of service, education, and cross-cultural exchange, the Santelices Foundation reflects a lifelong commitment to using the arts as a vehicle for transformation. Our initiatives are grounded in the belief that meaningful change arises when creativity is nurtured, community is prioritized, and access is expanded.

Our signature program, the Colchagua Vocal Institute, brings together promising singers from across the Americas for intensive training, mentorship, and cultural immersion in central Chile. By offering high-caliber instruction alongside meaningful intercultural dialogue, the program fosters both technical excellence and global citizenship. It is one of several ways we invest in the next generation of artists and cultural leaders.

The Santelices Foundation operates through the collective expertise and generosity of artists, educators, and changemakers who share a unified vision: to uplift diverse voices and strengthen communities through the power of the arts. Whether through education, performance, or outreach, our mission remains clear—to build a more connected, creative, and inclusive world.

We invite you to join us in shaping this vision. Together, we are cultivating legacy—one artist, one voice, one community at a time.

Meet The Team

Jack Gambassi, Secretary of the Santelices Foundation. The Santelices Foundation. Invest in music, education, and inclusion for the next generation.
Dr. José Miguel Santelices, President of the Santelices Foundation. The Santelices Foundation. Your gift empowers artists and preserves Hispanic cultural heritage.

  • Founder & President

    Tenor, educator, and stage director Dr. José Miguel Santelices brings a lifelong commitment to music, service, and cultural connection. A graduate of UWC Costa Rica and holder of a doctorate in voice performance, José Miguel founded the Santelices Foundation to bridge gaps in access, uplift Hispanic heritage, and empower artists across borders. His leadership is grounded in both artistic excellence and a deep belief in the power of education to transform lives.

  • Treasurer

    Though not a musician herself, Sejla Palic has long championed the arts and other community-driven causes. A graduate of UWC Bosnia, she brings a strong sense of purpose, global awareness, and financial integrity to her role as Treasurer. Her extensive volunteer background and commitment to social impact make her an essential voice on the foundation’s leadership team.

  • Secretary

    Bassoonist, former Rotaract President at the University of Utah, and future physician, Jack Gambassi brings both artistic insight and leadership experience to the foundation. He met José Miguel through service work at Rotaract, and his passion for helping others—whether through music or medicine—continues to shape his path. With roots in volunteerism and a heart for community, Jack is dedicated to the foundation’s mission of access, empowerment, and legacy.

WHY WE DO IT

Because art isn’t optional. It’s essential.

•

Because art isn’t optional. It’s essential. •

We believe that talent is everywhere—but opportunity is not.

We believe that representation matters, and that young artists deserve to see themselves in the world they dream of shaping.

We believe that culture should be celebrated—not erased.

We do this work to empower, to honor, and to build.
Because the world needs more artists who know who they are and what they stand for.

We believe that education should be expansive, human, and rooted in purpose.

We believe that connection—between people, places, and generations—is the heart of a lasting artistic legacy.

Make an impact today

Help us create a world where culture is honored, education is accessible, and every voice is empowered to rise.

We are a pending 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations will be tax-deductible once IRS status is approved (expected shortly).

3% Cover the Fee

Contact us

For inquiries about our programs, partnerships, or ways to support our mission, please fill out the form below or email us directly. We look forward to connecting with you.