Iowa native Simon Estes in addition to Des Moines Philanthropist Linda Koehn will be honored as leaders in opera as part of the OPERA America Salutes event today. Estes recently performed the role of Lawyer Frazier in the Des Moines Metro Opera’s production of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, his 103rd and final role on the operatic stage.

Koehn will be recognized as a National Opera Trustee, an award honoring trustees from professional opera companies for their exemplary leadership and service, and was nominated for her dedicated service on the Des Moines Metro Opera board of directors.

The OPERA America Salutes event is today at The University Club of New York.