A Steady Voice in the Choir and in Leadership

When Peter Kopcha’s father was ordained a deacon in 1983, someone needed to step in as choir director. Peter took the job and never left it. Since then, he’s been leading church choirs wherever he’s lived, including his current parish, Christ the Savior Church in Southbury, Connecticut.

Peter’s connection to the Church runs deep. He grew up attending Ss. Cyril & Methodius Orthodox Church in Terryville, spent three years at St. Jacob of Alaska Church in Vermont, and has served on parish councils throughout his life. He’s also taken on diocesan roles, including treasurer and music representative for the Diocese of New England.

Professionally, Peter is a CPA with a long career in corporate finance. He currently serves as Chief Financial Officer of St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, in addition to his role as Vice President of Finance, Accounting, and Controlling at ELG Utica Alloys Hartford Inc. He also spent 11 years as CFO for an internet wholesaler and has served on several corporate and nonprofit boards.

Peter and his wife, Pattie, live in Southbury and are the proud parents of a son, a daughter, a son-in-law, and three granddaughters. Both of their children attended the University of Connecticut and were active in OCF during college. Their positive experience, especially under the guidance of Archbishop Nikon of blessed memory, left a strong impression.

“OCF helped keep our kids connected to the Church when they were on their own for the first time. That meant a lot to our family,” Peter says. “When I heard about the recent growth of OCF, I wanted to do what I could to help it continue in the right way.”

Peter brings decades of experience in finance and parish life to the OCF board. His hope is that today’s students find the same grounding and support his children did.

“I’ve seen what OCF can offer. I want more young people to have that same chance.”