Topic - Philanthropy (363)

The art of giving back: Creating momentum during Act for Art (Stories 628133)

melissa.birdsey — Fri, 16 May 2025 13:36:50 +0000

The art of giving back: Creating momentum during Act for Art (Stories 628133) melissa.birdsey Fri, 05/16/2025 - 09:36 The art of giving back: Creating momentum during Act for ArtOver $336,000 raised for student scholarships during Act for Art 2025.

Students at a volunteer station during the Act for Art kickoff party, writing thank you notes and hanging out with Denny the Blueberry

May 16, 2025

The fifth annual Act for Art Giving Days inspired a heartfelt wave of support for emerging artists and their families. During this incredible community effort, 459 donors contributed a total of $336,703, including matching challenge gifts, to fund crucial financial aid for students in the upcoming Camp and Academy year.

Over the course of Act for Art 2025:

Every gift was matched by Interlochen’s Board of Trustees, and we’re grateful for their support of this campaign.
Donors from 13 countries and 42 states joined together to help young artists make their way to Interlochen.
171 Academy and Camp alumni gave, unlocking a $15,000 challenge. Special thanks to a 2003 Camp alumnus who provided the alumni challenge!
82 Academy parents unlocked $11,541. Special thanks to the 10 Academy families who came together to provide two different challenges for Academy parents!
111 employees unlocked $8,235. Special thanks to the Board of Trustees for providing an additional boost for employee gifts.

Behind this success were 150 passionate volunteers who created videos sharing their Interlochen experiences, spread the word and the Interlochen love on social media, offered challenge gifts, personally reached out to fellow alumni and parents asking for support, helped express gratitude to donors, and made gifts of their own. Additionally, Arts Academy students participated in the Student Philanthropy Team’s kick-off event on May 7, taking action to spread awareness and thank contributors.

Giving Days are most successful when a group of energetic volunteers start the momentum. Act for Art benefited from the incredible enthusiasm of our volunteer champions on campus and afar, from China to Switzerland, from California to Michigan, from their tweens to their 80s. These generous volunteers powered the Act for Art momentum—helping to spread the word and share the meaningful ways Interlochen impacted their lives.

One of the wonderful volunteers who gave his time this year was Xiaohua Wang, a parent of a freshman at Interlochen. He shared that was inspired to volunteer this year because “more children deserve the opportunity to discover their potential at Interlochen. I’ve been profoundly moved by the growth and independence my child has gained through this extraordinary community. The environment here doesn’t just nurture artistic skills. It cultivates confidence, curiosity, and a sense of adventure that I see thriving in every aspect of her life. Interlochen matters because it’s a place where every child is empowered to explore, create, and belong. I’m honored to support a campaign that opens such doors for others.”

Below are more of the heartfelt messages we received during this year's campaign. To view all comments, please visit the donor roll at the bottom of the Act for Art page.

THANK YOU again to all who gave or volunteered for coming together to make Act for Art 2025 a success for young artists and their big dreams!

Act for Art 2025 Donor Comment Sampling

This is a donation for my graduation year of 1980 and my post graduate year of 1981. Interlochen was the most amazing start to my career in music. - Jon

I give every paycheck but excited to join everyone to make a big push during Act for Art. Interlochen changed my life for the better and continues to change my life with every new student I get to work with. - Lesley T.

Grateful to Interlochen for the foundation of my personal practice and career, and the most meaningful, the gift of life long friendship. I want every kid to have the chance I had. - Mia

I learned so much at Interlochen including things that I continue to teach my students today. - Emily

Thank you IAA for fostering creativity, individuality, and learning in a beautiful environment. Proud Alumni Mom (IAA 2023) - Nicole

As a teenager in the 70's and 80's, I would dream of attending Interlochen's theatre program. With a family of six, I knew that my parents couldn't afford to send me, but financial aid was not available to me then. If I can just be a small part of someone attending that has that same dream-I am grateful. To that next theatre star who walks through that door on a needed scholarship through the Annual Fund-Break a leg! - Cindy

Thank you for creating a welcoming home away from home where young artists from all over the world grow, collaborate and build community with one another. - Yvonne

I attended IAA from 1981-1983. It was a life-changing experience. I made some wonderful friends, learned from top musicians and teachers and was inspired by the beauty of Interlochen’s setting. - Lisa

Thank you Interlochen beautiful art and artists into the world for almost 100 years! In my son, you planted and grew the inspiration for him to become an incredible trumpeter. His music can lift spirits, give chills, create smiles, amplify visual arts, and bring people together. We are proud to support the Interlochen Annual Fund, especially with its focus on supporting those artists who would not be able to attend Interlochen without it. - Lesley M.

Interlochen injects life into this little area in the woods and I couldn't be happier to support the young minds who dare to dream. Be bold, be brave, and believe in yourself! - Kelly

Proud to support the next generation of artists and dreamers. Grateful for all Interlochen does to inspire creativity, courage, and connection. Keep shining! - Shamara

Miami-Interlochen Partnership continues legacy of opportunity, collaboration, and transformation (Stories 628126)

melissa.birdsey — Thu, 15 May 2025 12:49:29 +0000

Miami-Interlochen Partnership continues legacy of opportunity, collaboration, and transformation (Stories 628126) melissa.birdsey Thu, 05/15/2025 - 08:49 Miami-Interlochen Partnership continues legacy of opportunity, collaboration, and transformationSince its founding in 2018, the partnership has enabled more than 360 south Florida students to attend Interlochen, sparked educational exchanges, and revolutionized the creative youth development movement.

Dan Lewis and Interlochen Campers from the Miami Music Project

May 15, 2025

Dan Lewis and Interlochen Campers from the Miami Music Project

Dan Lewis (right) with Malik J. (left), an Arts Academy Popular Music Performance major from Homestead, Florida and a recipient of the Interlochen Miami Academy Scholarship.

Last summer, high school trumpet student Gabriel P. experienced the holistic personal and artistic transformation that takes place at Interlochen Arts Camp.

“From every Kresge concert to each chamber performance in Fine Arts to each trip to Melody Freeze, Interlochen has changed my life for the better,” Gabriel wrote in a thank you letter. “So from the bottom of my Floridian heart, I thank you.”

Gabriel is one of the 55 young artists from the Miami area who attended Interlochen Arts Camp 2024 through the Miami-Interlochen Partnership. Established seven years ago through the generous and visionary philanthropic support of Dan Lewis and Valerie Dillon, the partnership has enabled more than 360 south Florida students to attend Interlochen’s world-class educational programs on full-tuition scholarships—transforming students’ lives, sparking meaningful educational exchanges, and revolutionizing the creative youth development movement in the process.

“The Miami-Interlochen Partnership has had a tremendous impact on bringing talented young artists to Camp, opening doors of opportunity for their own creative journeys while building a vibrant, collaborative community between Interlochen and our Miami partners,” said Interlochen Provost Camille Colatosti.

With summer on the horizon—and a new cohort of Miami students poised to attend Camp 2025—we look back at the remarkable and continuing triumphs of the Miami-Interlochen Partnership.

Early successes

The Miami-Interlochen Partnership first launched in 2018 after philanthropist Lewis approached Interlochen with a bold idea: a collaboration between Interlochen Center for the Arts and the Miami Music Project. Initially, 44 young musicians from the Miami Music Project attended Interlochen Arts Camp 2018 on full-tuition scholarships. By the end of the Camp season, the Miami-Interlochen Partnership had proven an extraordinary success.

“We had hoped the Miami Music Project students would help enrich the global community that gathers at Interlochen Arts Camp, but we could not have imagined the impact they made,” Interlochen President Trey Devey wrote in a Fall 2018 letter to the Interlochen community. “Their artistic abilities, hard work, and passion propelled their success, which inspired their peers, their faculty, and me.”

Several standout Miami Music Project students enrolled at Interlochen Arts Academy following the summer 2018 Camp season—paving the way for future Miami-Interlochen Partnership students to continue their studies at the Academy. In total, 13 partnership participants have attended the Academy on full-tuition scholarships funded by Lewis and Dillon.

Regardless of whether students attend the Academy or return to Miami, the lasting impact of their time at Interlochen is undeniable. Miami students who enroll at the Academy are more likely to graduate from high school and to continue on to college than their peers, have matriculated to top colleges, and receive 39% more in college scholarships when compared to other Academy students. Other Miami-Interlochen Partnership participants have also been inspired to pursue advanced training in music.

“It’s inspiring to see how participation in the Interlochen programs propels our students forward, encouraging them to dream bigger,” said Liber Cuervos, Director of Education and Programs at the Miami Music Project. “Due to their participation, our students have developed socially and musically, with some choosing to continue their music education afterward. We take pride in seeing them graduate from renowned institutions like Berklee College of Music, Oberlin Conservatory, and DePaul University.”

Anna Klimala, president and CEO of the Miami Music Project, notes that the partnership’s ripple effect extends far beyond individual participants.

“Since 2018, 288 students from the Miami Music Project have directly benefited from participating in Interlochen Arts Camp and Academy, returning with new skills and experiences that have not only shaped their lives, but also inspired and impacted hundreds of their peers,” Klimala said. “This is what true transformation looks like—this is real impact, possible only thanks to the power of a strong partnership. And it doesn’t stop here. The model we've built together holds immense potential for replication across the country, offering thousands of young people the opportunity to change their lives.”

Continuing impact

Today, the Miami-Interlochen Partnership has expanded to include Young Musicians Unite, Guitars Over Guns, and Arts Access Miami—through which students from Miami Children’s Voice Chorus, Norland Senior High School, and Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School were able to attend Camp in summer 2024.

“This partnership has meant everything to us,” said Sammy Gonzalez Zeira, CEO and founder of Young Musicians Unite. “It has opened the door for hundreds of young musicians to grow, find their voice, and discover new creative paths. Just as importantly, it created space for us as leaders to think big, build trust, and help shape what’s now become Arts Access Miami—a collective vision rooted in equity, creativity, and community.”

Beyond Camp scholarships for students from these organizations, the partnership has fostered educational exchanges between the Interlochen and Miami communities. Interlochen faculty annually visit Miami to serve as guest artists at partner organizations and local schools and to hold on-site Camp auditions. In fall 2024, 30 representatives from these organizations spent four days at Interlochen Arts Academy.

Perhaps the most visible exchange was the March 2020 Miami ONE tour, which featured opportunities for Arts Academy students to collaborate with students from the Miami Music Project, Guitars Over Guns, and Young Musicians Unite. The tour culminated in the performance of an original multidisciplinary program at Miami’s New World Center. Students from all three Miami partner organizations performed in the event; the Academy’s 122-student cohort included six young musicians who had enrolled at the Academy after attending Camp through the Miami-Interlochen Partnership.

Most importantly, as Klimala noted, the Miami-Interlochen Partnership has inspired the creation of similar partnerships in other metropolitan areas across the country. Thanks to generous donor support, new partnerships have been established with youth arts organizations in New York, Detroit, Los Angeles, Cleveland, and several other cities—enriching the Interlochen community with passionate and diverse youth voices.

While its broader influence on the creative youth development movement is exciting, the heartbeat of the Miami-Interlochen Partnership remains the same: Bringing gifted young artists to Interlochen for a summer that will transform their lives. To date, 369 students from the greater Miami area have attended Interlochen through the partnership—many of whom have returned for multiple summers.

This summer, more than 50 students will attend Interlochen Arts Camp through the Miami-Interlochen Partnership, embarking on the incredible educational journey that has shaped the lives of dozens of young musicians—such as popular music student Nathan R. and violist Natalia B.

“The jam sessions that I have every day help me connect with other musicians and communicate with them, and they’ve helped my ears and my groove,” Nathan said. “Thank you for allowing me to experience this wonderful camp.”

“At Camp, I learned how to be unapologetically myself and how to connect with others from around the world, which I will be taking with me to USC and beyond,” Natalia said. “Without your generous support and dedication towards the youth, I would not be the social and driven person I am today.”

Thanks to enduring philanthropic support from Lewis and Dillon, the Miami-Interlochen Partnership continues to shine as a model of opportunity, collaboration, and artistic growth.

Want to learn how you can support partnership programs like the Miami-Interlochen Partnership? Contact the Office of Philanthropy at philanthropy@interlochen.org or 231.276.7623.

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Participate in Act for Art 2025 (Stories 627572)

melissa.birdsey — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:51:32 +0000

Participate in Act for Art 2025 (Stories 627572) melissa.birdsey Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:51 Participate in Act for Art 2025Join fellow alumni and supporters to open the door to countless "only at Interlochen" moments. March 12, 2025

Mark your calendars for Interlochen's fifth annual Act for Art Giving Days coming up May 7-9, when our community comes together to champion the transformative power of arts education! The goal of Act for Art is to rally the Interlochen community in support of current and upcoming students. Giving Days celebrate participation, highlighting how powerful individual gifts and acts of service are when they are combined with a larger community.

Act for Art is the perfect moment each year to express your conviction that the arts are worthy of support, and your confidence in Interlochen to provide an unsurpassed arts education for the committed young people seeking a place for unlimited artistic growth. Your active participation, by making a donation or by giving your time and influence, are critical to a successful giving day.

Plan today to join this growing Interlochen tradition with your own gift this year and demonstrate how individual actions, when combined with collective commitment, create extraordinary opportunities for the next generation of artists.

Right now, we're building our volunteer team—the passionate advocates who create momentum and inspire others to participate in this celebration of giving. Volunteers are the champions who lead the way and build momentum.

All of our volunteer options are designed to require minimal time commitment and can be done from anywhere. Learn more about the various volunteer activities and sign up to volunteer today. A record 141 people volunteered last year, and we are looking to surpass that number again this year.

As every alum knows from their time here, Interlochen students pour their hearts into their art –practicing until their fingers know the notes by memory, perfecting that difficult dance sequence, finding just the right words to bring their stories to life.

For many students, these life-changing experiences would be out of reach without the generous and active support of donors who understand that a young creative needs their artistic community, committed mentors, and time to immerse themselves in their work. This is what your financial and volunteer participation in Act for Art provides.

Isabel is a senior Academy student majoring in Musical Theatre who will be graduating in May. She has served as a volunteer on our Student Philanthropy Team for the past three years because it has, “Inspired me to learn about the donors who devote their time and money to Interlochen. These are people who don’t take this place for granted. And I want to be like that.”

Each year, Isabel has pitched in for the students who will follow on their own paths at Interlochen. She said, “For us students, we can think of it as a stepping stone to go on our next path, but those stepping stones have to have a firm foundation. Interlochen really helps spread the message across the world of how important the arts are and that it’s worthwhile to put time and effort into the arts.”

Join Isabel and hundreds of other alumni and parents this year to support Act for Art Giving Days. Working together, we can help make it possible for tomorrow’s young artists to have their own transformative experiences at Interlochen.

Your involvement, through making a financial contribution or volunteering your time, directly impacts ambitious young artists who depend on your support to pursue their creative journeys at Interlochen. Your help and support is needed, and we are so grateful for it. Send any questions you have to actforart@interlochen.org.

Sustaining a legacy of service and philanthropy (Stories 627439)

melissa.birdsey — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 18:46:01 +0000

Sustaining a legacy of service and philanthropy (Stories 627439) melissa.birdsey Mon, 02/10/2025 - 13:46 Sustaining a legacy of service and philanthropyJoanne Sprouse first gave to Interlochen in memory of her son, Stephen. Now, upon her passing, a gift from the remainder of her Donor Advised Fund is continuing her mission of doing as much good as possible.

Joanne Sprouse (right) with a recipient of the Stephen Sprouse Memorial Endowed Scholarship at an event in the Dow Center for Visual Arts Gordon Brunner Family Gallery.

February 12, 2025

Throughout her life, Joanne Sprouse lived by the words of one of her favorite sayings: “Do as much good as you can, for as many people as you can, for as long as you can.”

After permanently relocating to her family’s summer cottage on Glen Lake in 1987, Joanne brought that spirit of service to her new community in northern Michigan. She volunteered for several local organizations, including the Glen Lake School Library, Empire Community Library, and Central United Methodist Church soup kitchen.

Beyond her volunteerism, Joanne was also a generous philanthropist. In 2012, Joanne decided to honor her late son by establishing the Stephen Sprouse Memorial Endowed Scholarship at Interlochen Center for the Arts.

A noted fashion designer, Stephen Sprouse spent many summers in northern Michigan and had a deep passion for the visual arts. Although he never attended Interlochen himself, his remarkable creative journey inspired his family to support other talented young visual artists. For more than a decade, the scholarship created in Stephen’s memory has enabled visual arts students with great potential and significant financial need to study at Interlochen Arts Academy.

In November 2024, Joanne passed away at age 94. Her final gift to Interlochen was a portion of the remainder of her Donor Advised Fund (DAF).

As an easy and tax-advantageous way to give to donors’ favorite charitable organizations, the use of DAFs is rapidly growing in popularity in the United States. To establish a DAF, donors make an irrevocable gift to a community foundation or financial institution. Donors can contribute many types of assets to a DAF—including cash, stocks, securities, cryptocurrency, and in some cases, real estate—and receive an immediate tax deduction. These gifts are then disbursed from the DAF to qualifying charitable organizations, like Interlochen. While the initial gift to the DAF is irrevocable (donors cannot withdraw the funds), the donors retain advisory privileges over how DAF funds are invested and dispersed, allowing them to support their favorite causes over time.

While donors can choose to name a successor to continue managing their DAF, many—like Joanne—opt to terminate the account upon their passing and distribute the remaining funds to the charity or charities of their choice. By choosing this option, donors can ensure that their gifts are dispersed in a manner that aligns with their personal philanthropic goals.

With her final gift to Interlochen, Joanne not only empowered other young artists like Stephen to find their purpose at Interlochen: She also continued her own mission of serving others.

Class Ambassadors propel fundraising in 2024 (News Articles 627254)

marycaroline.whims@interlochen.org — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 19:11:46 +0000

Class Ambassadors propel fundraising in 2024 (News Articles 627254) marycaroline.w… Fri, 11/08/2024 - 14:11 Class Ambassadors propel fundraising in 2024This year, Arts Academy alumni banded together to lead an innovative approach in class giving. Here’s how their efforts paid off—and how new donors can get involved.

The 2024 Alumni Reunion Weekend marked the culmination of a year of impactful giving.

November 8, 2024

Since the school’s founding in 1962, Interlochen Arts Academy has thrived because of the generous gifts of donors—friends and family members, supporters in the local community, and enthusiastic alumni. 2024 marked a pivotal year in that story of generosity as Arts Academy alumni came together and led a new initiative to support their former school through class giving. Their efforts paid off in significant ways this October.

2024 giving began early in the spring, with a group of dedicated Class Ambassadors sounding a clarion call to fellow alumni to join them in supporting the Interlochen Annual Fund. This peer-to-peer fundraising initiative focused on alumni from this year’s reunion milestone classes: 1964/65, 1975, 1984/85, and 1994/95. Over the summer, Class Ambassadors from these years worked with Philanthropy and Engagement staff to set up class giving websites and lead the charge on social media and beyond.

“We were excited to work with the Class Ambassadors on launching this initiative. Their enthusiasm and passion were inspiring, and together, we achieved a greater impact than we had anticipated,” says Stephanie Pierce, Director of Annual Giving.

When the gifts were tallied after late October’s Alumni Reunion Weekend, the success was revealed. Interlochen had received gifts totaling nearly $70,000 from 160 alumni donors between January 1 and October 31, surpassing the cumulative $52,000 goal by $17,000. Many alumni gave for the first time through this project, joining others who have led the way by giving generously each year—some for up to 36 years straight. In addition, Chris Kyprie (IAA 63-65, IAC/NMC 59-65) made a major gift to establish a scholarship endowment that was not counted in the overall tally, and prior to the reunion, 12 alumni documented that Interlochen is included in their estate plans.

Front row, left to right: Chris Kyprie (IAC/NMC 59-65, IAA 63-65), Danis Kelly (IAC/NMC 59-60, 62; IAA 62-64), Cathy Compton (IAC/NMC 62-64; AS 61; UNIV 66, 71-72; IAA 64-65)

Back row, left to right: Jonathan Plotkin (IAA 81-85), Misook DesJardins (IAA 82-84), Carolyn Felix Purcell, Associate Director of Engagement (IAA 84-86), Barbara Shaterian (IAA 82-85), Rob Bracken (IAA/NMC 73, IAA 73-75)

Not Pictured: Cari Lewis (IAA 92-94), Tim Vick (IAC/NMC 63, IAA 63-65), Jonna Bass Murphy (IAC 92-93, IAA 93-95)

For the alumni who participated, this year’s foray into class giving offered a powerful opportunity to give back to an institution that changed their lives while encouraging others to join them in giving. Class Ambassador Cari Lewis (IAA 92-94) has a passion for giving that began not long after graduating from Arts Academy. As early as the summer after her senior year, Lewis started sending donations to Interlochen from the tips she earned while waiting tables.

“From early on, I knew that I was very, very fortunate to have received the gift of my time at Interlochen, and wanted to pay it forward,” she says.

Inspired by the many performances and exhibitions she attended while at Arts Academy, Lewis studied arts administration in college and went on to launch a career in that field. Now, she is the Executive Director at Door Community Auditorium, a year-round venue for performing arts, entertainment, cultural and educational activities.

I give back to Interlochen because my Interlochen experience—first as a student, then as an employee, and now as an alumna—is something I deeply treasure. It is easy to ask my classmates to do the same, because most of them also hold that experience in the highest regard.

Cari Lewis (IAA 92-94)

“Interlochen is the place that informed my listening skills and knowledge of the performing arts. What I learned there is the foundation for the work I do now,” she says.

Lewis is just one example of the remarkable individuals who continue to lead the way for young artists, making a life-changing Interlochen experience accessible to more students than ever. In true solo e tutti fashion, alumni have come together this year as a cohesive community to accomplish things no one person could do on their own.

“I give back to Interlochen because my Interlochen experience—first as a student, then as an employee, and now as an alumna—is something I deeply treasure,” says Lewis. “It is easy to ask my classmates to do the same, because most of them also hold that experience in the highest regard.”

The momentum will continue well into the holiday season, as alumni who wish to lend their support are invited to send in gifts by the end of the calendar year, December 31. Together, alumni from any class can help share the magic of Interlochen with gifted young artists from around the world.

Give to the Annual Fund today.

Scholarship support aids record-breaking Interlochen Arts Camp enrollment (Stories 626719)

melissa.birdsey — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 15:45:01 +0000

Scholarship support aids record-breaking Interlochen Arts Camp enrollment (Stories 626719) melissa.birdsey Fri, 07/19/2024 - 11:45 Scholarship support aids record-breaking Interlochen Arts Camp enrollmentMore than 50% of the Camp’s 3,344 students received merit- or need-based scholarships—empowering hundreds of young artists to enjoy transformational artistic experiences. July 24, 2024

Picture this: You’re sitting in the crowd at the Interlochen Bowl, waiting to witness the 97th performance of “Les Préludes.” But as Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Music Director JoAnn Falletta takes the podium, half of the seats on stage remain empty.

This summer, a record-breaking 3,344 young artists are attending Interlochen Arts Camp—more than 50% of whom received merit aid or need-based scholarships. For many recipients, that support was the difference between taking their place beneath the pines and leaving a seat unfilled.

“Many of our students—including some of our most talented students—could not afford to come to Camp without financial assistance,” says Heather Lee, Dean of Admission & Financial Aid. “Thanks to the support from our amazing donors, we are able to make students' and families' dreams come true by helping reduce the cost to attend Interlochen Arts Camp.”

For the 2024 Camp season, the Office of Admission & Financial Aid awarded more than $4 million in need- and merit-based aid—which includes donor-supported scholarships. Lee shared one high school music student’s reaction to learning they had been offered a scholarship.

“It is an absolute blessing to even attend a camp like Interlochen, but the scholarship surpassed my wildest expectations,” the student said. “Every day now, I just think of all the possibilities: music, people, learning, and the campus."

Julia B., an Arts Camp singer-songwriter student, echoes the awe of attending Interlochen—and the remarkable personal and artistic growth that transpires here.

“Working with world-class musicians and artists has opened my eyes in countless ways in terms of my writing and professionalism, and I won't forget the lessons I've been taught since I've been here,” Julia said. “The inspiration that Interlochen provides is incomparable to any other place I've been. I am so fortunate to have made beautiful connections with not only the people I work with every day, but also with my cabin-mates. It is truly a gift to be here, and I value this experience incredibly.”

As Interlochen approaches its centennial, the institution is committed to making our programs more accessible to every young artist who is offered admission. Our plan by 2028 is to be able to meet the full demonstrated financial need of new Camp and Academy students as they enroll.

Dozens of generous donors have already answered the call to increase access to Interlochen. In Fiscal Year 2024, donors established 32 new endowed scholarships and 11 new named annual scholarships, bringing the current total to 370 endowed scholarships and 71 annual scholarships.

Heidi S., an All-State and Arts Academy alumna, honors her own Interlochen experiences by supporting today’s students.

“When I was a student, I was given quite a bit of financial support,” Heidi says. “I’m happy to try to pay it back at least in a little way."

For Lee, increased scholarship support means her team can offer incredible opportunities to even more young artists.

“Year after year, we hear feedback from students and their families that their experience at Interlochen was life-changing,” Lee says. “Our goal in Admission is to change as many lives as we can through arts education. The support of our donors makes this all possible.”

Thanks to scholarship support, Interlochen can be united through the universal language of the arts—and ensure that every seat is filled.

Over $200,000 raised for student scholarships during Act for Art 2024 (Stories 626412)

melissa.birdsey — Fri, 10 May 2024 16:27:36 +0000

Over $200,000 raised for student scholarships during Act for Art 2024 (Stories 626412) melissa.birdsey Fri, 05/10/2024 - 12:27 Over $200,000 raised for student scholarships during Act for Art 2024443 people gave during the three-day fundraising event earlier this month. May 10, 2024

Thanks to the commitment of many dedicated supporters, the fourth annual Act for Art Giving Days was a powerful groundswell of support for young artists and their families. Thank you to all who gave: your contributions are a testament to the generosity of this community, and the desire to invest in the future of the arts. Working together, 443 donors made gifts totaling $201,775 to support students’ financial aid needs in the coming Camp and Academy year.

The alumni, employee, and parent participation challenges were all met! 172 alumni, 108 employees and 153 parents joined in. The generosity of these employees and parents unlocked a combined $82,850 for student scholarships.

141 energetic, committed volunteers created peer-to-peer campaigns, made videos, posted on social media, pledged seed or challenge gifts, and helped in the thanking effort. Additionally, 37 Arts Academy students came to the May 1 kick-off party on campus, completing various volunteer actions to spread the word and send appreciation to donors. Arts Academy alumni, students, and parents; Arts Camp alumni and parents; faculty and staff; Camp Ambassadors; the Academy’s Student Philanthropy Team; the Interlochen Annual Fund Committee; the Interlochen Engagement Council; and the Campus Philanthropy Ambassadors all participated.

Our volunteers worked together to rally the worldwide Interlochen community, sharing the positive message that everyone participating in the way they can is powerful. People of all ages, backgrounds, and geographies took part in the effort. Jian Wu, a parent volunteer in Beijing, China, has volunteered each year for Act for Art, and braved the 12 hour time difference to participate in the volunteer kick-off call before the giving days started! Jian said, “It’s a great experience to meet other contributors during Act for Art, to feel the enthusiasm of the community! No happiness can compare to the feeling when seeing our next generations thrive in a fantastic kingdom like Interlochen. Due to busy work and high travel costs we cannot visit often, but we think attending some events/activities is another sort of participation that helps us feel closer to our son and Interlochen.”

Here are just a few of the heartfelt and inspiring messages we received during Act for Art. You can see all of the comments on the donor roll at the bottom of the Act for Art page.

“Thank you IAA for giving our family just what our daughter and grandson needed.”

“Hooray for Act for Art! Interlochen has brought so many wonderful people into my life, through Camp, Academy, and as an intern-it’s an honor and pleasure to give back!”

“I am incredibly grateful for the scholarship support that allowed my son to attend Camp and Academy. He would not be the organist he is today were it not for Interlochen and the dedication of his teacher, Tom Bara.”

“I donate as an Evergreen sustainer, but always give a little extra during the Act For Art campaign to help support young artists to blossom at Interlochen.”

“Interlochen meant the world to me as a kid! I did my four high school summers and my senior year of high school there. Met friends that I still have to this day!”

“We donate to Act for Art in hopes of helping other young artists find their way home. Interlochen has changed the life of our student. It has provided her with a place where she has a true sense of belonging and community. She has continually faced medical challenges throughout her junior and senior years at the Academy. The beyond incredible theatre and academic faculty, not to mention the devoted college counseling and psychological support staff, have done nothing but stand behind her, encourage her, and accommodate her. They have been the wind in her sails that has enabled her to face the storms in her life while still chasing after her artistic dreams.”

“Interlochen has been a beautiful experience for my daughter. We will forever be supporters so other kids have the same opportunity!”

“There is no other place in the world like Interlochen. Here, anyone, of any age, and any ability, can embrace the artist within and find their people and their purpose. It is an honor and a joy to be a part of this wonderful community.”

“I give because the arts have the power to shape and change our world for the better. This special place and these remarkable people help young artists find their voice, hone their craft, and rise to their full potential so they can be the change they want to see.”

Another resounding thank you to all who gave or volunteered for coming together to make Act for Art a success for young artists and their big dreams!

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Volunteer for Act for Art 2024 (News Articles 625841)

melissa.birdsey — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:09:38 +0000

Volunteer for Act for Art 2024 (News Articles 625841) melissa.birdsey Tue, 03/05/2024 - 11:09 Volunteer for Act for Art 2024Join fellow supporters and alumni to support more scholarships for Interlochen’s students.

Arts Academy theatre students perform a stage adaptation of the popular children's book Stellaluna during the 2023-24 Academy year.

March 27, 2024

Interlochen’s fourth annual Act for Art Giving Days are May 1-3, and we need your help! The goal of Act for Art is to rally the Interlochen community in support of more scholarship dollars being available for Camp and Academy Students. Giving Days celebrate participation, highlighting how powerful individual gifts and acts of service are when they are combined with a larger community.

Volunteers are critical to a successful giving day. All of our volunteer options are designed to require minimal time commitment and can be done from anywhere. Learn more about the various volunteer activities and sign up to volunteer today.

Together, as a community, we can make an Interlochen experience possible for students who would not be able to attend without financial aid. Over 2,100 Academy and Camp students received financial aid this year. This is why it matters that volunteers join in to make sure Act for Art is a success for our young artists!

112 people volunteered in various ways in 2023 and we are looking to keep that number growing. As a volunteer, you can help increase the number of donors and funds raised for an even greater impact this year.

Your help is needed, and we are so grateful for it! Send any questions you have to actforart@interlochen.org.

Camp alumni lean in with unique gifts toward scholarships (Stories 625723)

melissa.birdsey — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:00:26 +0000

Camp alumni lean in with unique gifts toward scholarships (Stories 625723) melissa.birdsey Thu, 01/18/2024 - 11:00 Camp alumni lean in with unique gifts toward scholarshipsDonors honor inspirational instructors and transformational experiences through planned giving, gifts of securities, and other creative giving options.

Dr. Michael Bresler, M.D. rehearses with the World Youth Symphony Orchestra during the summer of 1964.

January 31, 2024

During the summer of 1956, Dr. Michael Bresler, M.D. (IAC/NMC 56-58, 60-61, 64; UNIV 65; IAC St 72, 77-79, 87-91, 02-04)—then a nine-year-old percussion student at Interlochen Arts Camp—performed with an orchestra for the very first time. Though Bresler went on to a decorated career in medicine rather than music, the memories and relationships he developed at Interlochen left an indelible mark on his life.

“There’s no way to exaggerate what Interlochen has meant to me, from my first day as a junior camper to today, over six decades later,” Bresler said. “Even now, most of my best friends are Interlochen connections, and I’m still enjoying the thrill of orchestral performance, which I first experienced at Interlochen so long ago.”

Over the years, Bresler has supported the young artists of Interlochen through both his professional talents and financial gifts. An emergency medicine specialist and Clinical Professor of Emergency Medicine at Stanford University, Bresler served as a member of the Arts Camp Health Services team for several summers. He also established the Dr. Michael Jay Bresler, M.D. Family Camp Percussion Scholarship to enable other emerging percussionists to hone their skills and forge lifelong bonds beneath the stately pines.

“Without financial assistance, Interlochen–and so many treasured friends and musical experiences–would never have been part of my life,” Bresler said. “Now that I am able to do so, I feel honored by the fact that I can help other young kids have the potentially life-altering experience of Interlochen that others made possible for me.”

Recently, Bresler deepened his financial commitment to the institution with a planned gift to support his scholarship in perpetuity. Bresler is one of the many Interlochen donors who have chosen to support Interlochen through unique gifts such as wills, charitable gift annuities, retirement plans, or gifts of securities.

Another former camper, who wishes to remain anonymous, recently celebrated their family’s multi-generational connections to Interlochen by gifting a closely held stock that they inherited from a family member who also loved Interlochen. The donor’s child, who is also a former camper, enthusiastically supported the gift.

Funds from the sale of the stock will be used to create two new scholarship endowments, which will be named in honor of two Arts Camp instructors who made a significant impact on the donor’s family.

“Our family has benefited from the Interlochen summer experience as wind players for two generations,” the donor said. “By funding two endowed scholarships, that opportunity becomes more accessible to other families and supports Interlochen’s mission in the long term.”

The anonymous donor has also given a cash gift to establish a deferred charitable gift annuity. Under this agreement, Interlochen invests the donor’s gift, and the donor receives fixed payments for life beginning at a date in the future. Interlochen will receive the remainder of the invested funds upon the donor’s passing.

“It was a joyful process to create the scholarships—which will be an ongoing source of connection for us as we see these funds allocated to students each summer,” the donor said.

Director of Planned Giving Kathleen Kasdorf says that deferred giving options such as estate gifts and charitable gift annuities reflect the creativity, vision, passion, and generosity of Interlochen’s alumni and supporters.

“It is always an honor when alumni show their deep love for Interlochen Center for the Arts by including us in their estate plans,” Kasdorf said. “We often talk about planned gifts as creating a legacy, but they're really about envisioning the future. Many of the planned gifts that are written into wills or trusts today will not be realized for decades. The alumni who create them believe that Interlochen and its mission of world friendship through the power of the arts will always be essential. They are creative thinkers, using their ultimate gift to provide for the young artists of tomorrow.”

For more information about ways to include Interlochen in your estate plans, contact Kathleen Kasdorf at kathleen.kasdorf@interlochen.org or 231.276.7637. For other ways to give to Interlochen, please visit our website or contact the Office of Philanthropy at philanthropy@interlochen.org or 231.276.7623.

‘A symbol of interconnectedness’: Student-designed bench honors life and legacy of Thomas H. Corson (Stories 625649)

melissa.birdsey — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 13:52:18 +0000

‘A symbol of interconnectedness’: Student-designed bench honors life and legacy of Thomas H. Corson (Stories 625649) melissa.birdsey Thu, 12/07/2023 - 08:52 ‘A symbol of interconnectedness’: Student-designed bench honors life and legacy of Thomas H. CorsonDesigned by Arts Academy alumnus Yutetsu Horacek, the bench beautifies the Green Lake waterfront while sparking conversation and connection. December 7, 2023

Between the Dance Center and Dow House, two abstract orange stitches frame stunning vistas of the Green Lake shoreline.

The sculpture is a compelling addition to the Green Lake waterfront revitalization and the culmination of the Tom Corson Memorial Bench Competition. Catalyzed in 2020 by current Interlochen Center for the Arts trustee Claire Corson Skinner, the competition challenged Arts Academy visual arts students to design a sculpture that doubles as a functional bench in memory of Claire’s father, Tom Corson. The winning work, designed by 2022 Arts Academy graduate Yutetsu Horacek (IAC 18-19, IAA 20-22), was dedicated on Oct. 19, 2023.

“It is so much more than a bench,” said Director of Visual Arts Mindy Zacher Ronayne during the dedication ceremony. “It's a bridge between art and functionality, a symbol of interconnectedness, and a tribute to the enduring legacy of Tom Corson and his family.”

Five decades of dedication

The Corson family–Tom, Dorthy (known as Dottie), and Claire–first discovered Interlochen during a family vacation. A few years later, in 1971, Claire attended the National Music Camp as a choir and drama student.

In the five decades since, the family has remained closely connected to the institution. Tom joined the Board of Trustees in 1973, serving as a member and chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee during the time Interlochen commissioned the campus master plan from Sasaki Associates. He retired from the board in 1997 after 24 years of dedicated service and was named a Life Trustee. Eleven years later, in 2017, Claire began her own tenure as an Interlochen trustee. Claire’s two great-nieces, Fiona and Lillian, have carried the family legacy into a new generation as Camp attendees.

Beyond their leadership as trustees, the Corsons have also supported Interlochen financially. In 1978, they gave the leadership gift for the construction of Corson Auditorium. They also created and endowed two scholarships: The Thomas H. and Dorthy S. Corson Scholarship and the Dorthy S. Corson and Lillie Belle Scheide Memorial Scholarship.

Following Dottie’s passing in 2016, the Corson family honored Dottie’s love for Green Lake with a gift to increase the beauty and accessibility of the Stone Hotel waterfront. The revitalized waterfront, known as Corson Park, features a wheelchair-accessible elevator to the beach, a promenade with lighted walkways, a lakeside cafe, and Dottie’s Deck, a paved seating area overlooking the lakefront. The park was dedicated in July 2017.

Claire Corson Skinner (left), Tom Corson (center), and Jim Skinner (Claire’s husband, right) pose with the Corson Park sign during the park’s dedication ceremony.

When Tom passed in late 2019, Claire worked with Interlochen’s Philanthropy team to create a fitting tribute to her father. The initial idea–a bench for Corson Park–soon evolved into a design competition for visual arts students.

Tying things together

The Tom Corson Memorial Bench Competition launched in Fall 2020. Claire opened the competition by meeting with Academy visual arts students and telling them about her father.

“Mrs. Skinner mentioned that her father was filled with positive energy, optimism, and happiness,” wrote winning designer Yutetsu Horacek in his competition proposal. “I kept that in mind while designing this project. I felt the need for this bench to become a place everyone could enjoy while honoring her father and reflecting his personality.”

Three finalists were selected prior to the Academy’s 2020 holiday break; final presentations were made in early January 2021. Horacek’s textile-inspired design was ultimately selected as the winning proposal.

“I was inspired by stitches and their ability to tie things together and bring everything closer,” Horacek wrote. “I wanted the bench to represent this metaphor and be a place where people would create stronger relationships during their time at Interlochen.”

As the winner of the competition, Horacek received a $500 cash prize. The Yokohama, Japan native currently studies at Central Saint Martins, a world-renowned arts and design college in London, England.

Exploring public art

Beyond honoring Tom’s legacy and beautifying the lakefront, the Tom Corson Memorial Bench Competition also sparked a new addition to the Visual Arts curriculum.

“The competition was our first significant public art endeavor, which inspired us to create a class dedicated to public art,” Ronayne said. “This class has generated many other projects around campus and in the community. The educational benefits of this experience provided an opportunity for all of us to learn about designing for fabrication, collaboration, and the importance of public art.”

Contemplation and conversation

Now open for use by students, staff, and guests, the bench exemplifies two key elements of the Interlochen experience: friendship and immersion in nature.

“This sculpture will serve as a constant source of conversation and interaction,” Ronayne said. “Art is not merely about aesthetics; it is about communication. It prompts us to engage with our surroundings, challenge our perceptions, and seek a deeper understanding of the world. In this sculpture, we find a catalyst for such dialogues: a conversation starter that will bring together generations of students, faculty, alumni, and visitors.”

Trey Devey, president of Interlochen Center for the Arts, echoed Ronayne’s thoughts about the bench’s lasting impact.

“The Corson family’s generosity enabled us to create Corson Park,” Devey said during his dedication remarks. “Our beautiful Dance Center and Dow House have further transformed the shores of Green Lake, and today, thanks to the Corson family, this new art bench further ties these two buildings to the waterfront, offering a place for quiet contemplation and creative reflection.”

“This bench is a work of art–and yet another way to bring our students and visitors into harmony with the lake shore.”