Tracey Bulau serves as the Director of Family, Children and Youth Ministry at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Rockford, where she creates a safe space of belonging and inclusion for all children, youth, and families, especially those traditionally excluded from churches. She co-chairs the Reconciling in Christ (RIC) subcommittee for the Northern Illinois Synod, helping educate other churches on LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Her love of music began as a preteen when she first picked up the flute and has since grown to include singing and choral music, which she is thrilled to share through her performances with the Forest City Rainbow Chorus.

Jennifer is an avid lover of many types of music. She studied ballet, tap, and jazz dance in childhood and drums as an adult, but her true musical passion is singing. She was in various choirs and musical choruses from grade school all the way through college. She also enjoys volunteering at animal shelters and learning about animal behavior. She now dedicates her time to activism and advocacy and strongly supports and encourages diversity and inclusivity. She brings a strong attention to detail and organization to her role as our Secretary and a love and passion for music to the chorus.

Annie Hose-Ryan holds a BA from Rockford University and an MA from Illinois State University, both in political science. She sang in Rockford University's choirs under the direction of the magnificent Timm Adams and was part of the Rockford Operetta Party. She wasn't allowed to be in choir during high school but loved being in the musicals Carousel and Mame. She was deemed too fat for the Rockford University main stage but performed in student shows. She's excited to sing her heart out in a group that finally feels like family by accepting her as the mess she is

Alex Martinez is the Artistic Director of the Forest City Rainbow Chorus, bringing precision and a deep love of choral music to every concert program. With four years of experience as a choir director and more than a decade of teaching private music lessons, Alex cultivates strong vocal technique while creating an affirming, joyful space where singers can thrive. Her work centers on musical excellence, emotional authenticity, and the power of collective voices to build community. As Artistic Director, Alex is committed to shaping performances that are rooted in the chorus’s mission of inclusion and visibility.

​Andrew J. Mertzenich is an accomplished musician and conductor based in Rockford, Illinois, with a particular passion for the performing arts. He serves as Director of Traditional Music at Westminster Presbyterian Church and Organist at Court Street United Methodist Church. Andrew is also Assistant Director of Rockford's Ecumenical Community Handbell Organization (ECHO) and is a frequent performer at the historic Coronado Theatre, including appearances with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra. Known for his versatility at the console and commitment to community arts, Andrew is an advocate for inclusive and accessible music-making throughout the region.

​Jessica Mullner serves as the Chief County Assessment Officer and Supervisor of Assessments for Boone County, Illinois, where she oversees the fair and accurate valuation of real property in accordance with the Illinois Property Tax Code, managing countywide assessment operations, supporting township assessors, administering exemptions, and working closely with the Boone County Board of Review to ensure equity, transparency, and compliance. Beyond her professional role, Jessica is known for her love of music and her strong support for the arts, and she is a proud ally of queer people through her support of the Forest City Rainbow Chorus, reflecting her commitment to inclusion, community, and cultural enrichment in the Rockford region.