Barbara Kokaska is the new president of the North County Society of Fine Arts (NCSFA) after the Rancho Bernardo nonprofit installed its 2026-27 board of directors.

The organization announced the full slate in late September, as first reported by the San Diego Union-Tribune. Joan Bonetti moves to past president. Reva Sandmeyer will serve as recording secretary and Steve Berkowitz as treasurer.

Five vice presidents and six at-large members round out the board: Susan Berkowitz (programs, workshops and membership), Janet Keto and Cheryl Boeller (exhibitions), Lynn Rehr (scholarships), Ahna Street (publicity), Lydia Weber, Beatriz Mata, Shelli West, Kat Furrow, Christina Adamopoulos and Doris Bertch.

The slate is full.

The group started in 1993 as the Poway Art League, founded by Pat Kent, Marjorie Eddy and Diana Smith. Three years later it became the North County Society of Fine Arts and awarded its first scholarship, according to the organization's website. A scholarship for a high school senior has been awarded every year since, funded by member donations and sales of mini paintings.

NCSFA offers free demonstrations at its general meetings, fee-based workshops open to the public, exhibit space at the Rancho Bernardo Library and monetary awards at juried shows. Membership costs $50 for individuals, $60 for families and $25 for students 18 or younger.

The group's next general meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 13, at noon at the Rancho Bernardo Library, 17110 Bernardo Center Drive. Artist Noreen Ring will give the demonstration. Susan Berkowitz's artwork goes on display at the library gallery from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31.

Ring also leads the season's first workshop, "Painting Whimsically," on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at the Carmel Mountain Rec Center, 10152 Rancho Carmel Drive. The fee is $45 for members and $55 for non-members. Questions go to Susan Berkowitz through the NCSFA workshops page.

Upcoming NCSFA dates

  • Tuesday, Oct. 13: General meeting and Noreen Ring demo, noon, Rancho Bernardo Library
  • Wednesday, Oct. 28: "Painting Whimsically" workshop with Noreen Ring, Carmel Mountain Rec Center ($45 members / $55 non-members)