Though many Chautauquans spend Thanksgiving away from our historic grounds, others return to enjoy the last blaze of fall colors before winter sets in. As you gather in gratitude with family and friends, either here at Chautauqua or in the communities you call home, please join us in reflecting on the meaningful impact philanthropy continues to have on the Institution.
We invite you to read just a few examples of the many ways your gifts are making an impact on Chautauquans of every age today, and how future generations will benefit from your generous forethought.
To every member of our family of donors, we say a hearty “thank you” and send our very best wishes for a warm holiday season. We are, as always, so grateful for you.
Supporting Students and Shaping Futures at Chautauqua’s Schools of Performing and Visual Arts
Each summer, hundreds of student artists flock to Chautauqua Institution to hone their crafts. Working alongside world-class faculty, they polish their skills and make professional connections that last a lifetime. Among the most unique aspects of the experience is the multidisciplinary nature of student life at Chautauqua. Dancers, singers, actors, instrumentalists and visual artists share meals and living space, collaborating and expanding their artistic horizons. Countless artists, who now populate the world’s stages and galleries, hold their Chautauqua experience dear. To make the program more accessible, many students receive tuition support because of philanthropy from generous Chautauquans. This financial aid is essential in ensuring the best emerging artists of our time can share in, and elevate, the Chautauqua experience.
“I see firsthand how scholarship gifts support Chautauqua’s performing and visual arts students and the resulting artistic experiences they get to enjoy over the course of the summer. Our students come from all over the country and the world to hone their skills and perform on our stages, which wouldn’t be possible for them without philanthropic support. The deep well of budding talent that Chautauquans have access to should not be taken for granted. Our students will soon go off to become extraordinary professional artists. How special is it that Chautauqua gets to play a role in launching their careers? I’m grateful for the supporters who ensure that students have room to grow here and that Chautauquans get a front row seat to experience emerging talent.”
—Sam Minardi, Schools of Performing & Visual Arts and Arts Education Coordinator
A Legacy of Enlightening Minds and Inspiring Spirits with the Chautauqua Lecture Series
Though Chautauqua’s grounds have seen many transformations since those first seasons, from fashion trends to architectural styles, among the essential components that have remained unchanged is the Chautauqua Lecture Series. Perhaps the core offering in Chautauqua’s Education pillar, the lecture platform has been occupied by United States presidents, religious leaders, change-making artists, and some of the best thinkers of the past 150 years. Beyond its power as a platform for civic dialogue, it has also served as a gathering point for generations of families and friends. It works as a catalyst for conversation and increased understanding, exemplifying the Institution’s mission to explore the best in human values and dedication to fostering lifelong learning. The platform has been supported by endowment and annual giving alike, perpetuated by philanthropic community members who recognize its value to both the larger world and our individual social circles.
“The impact of generous Chautauquans can be seen and heard at every single lecture throughout the Summer Assembly. Our ability to bring the world’s best speakers to our stage is made possible by philanthropy — from those who have supported the Chautauqua Lecture Series through endowed lectureships to those who make an annual contribution through the Chautauqua Fund. I’m grateful for every person who has shown their love for our venerable platform with such generosity. These gifts both sustain a proud legacy and ensure our continued success.”
—Jordan Steves, Emily and Richard Smucker Chair for Education
Preserving the Chautauqua Experience Through Endowment
Since its inception in 1937, the Chautauqua Foundation has served as the primary vehicle for visionary Chautauquans who want to secure the Chautauqua experience for future generations. Annual payouts from nearly 800 restricted and flexible funds support every corner of the Institution’s programs and operations, providing crucial, dependable support each year. More than a quarter of the Foundation’s net assets, which totaled more than $100 million at the end of 2022, provide for general support that gives the Institution flexibility in addressing pressing, unforeseen needs. The remainder is dedicated to supporting physical maintenance and the Institution’s four programmatic pillars: arts, education, religion, and recreation. In 2022, more than $4 million in payout was made available to the Institution, touching the experiences of every Chautauquan who visited our historic grounds, whether they spent the season or an afternoon with us. The growth and success of the Foundation is made possible by the many generous Chautauquans who create new funds, or contribute to existing funds, each year.
“It is a tremendous privilege to work alongside the Chautauqua Foundation Board of Directors in stewarding the endowment for Chautauqua. The funds held within the Foundation are the bedrock of the Institution’s future, ensuring steady support in perpetuity across the pillars and programs Chautauquans hold dear. I am thankful for the past and current donors who have recognized the endowment’s role in securing Chautauqua’s future for all our children and grandchildren to enjoy.”
—Debbie Moore, Executive Director, Chautauqua Foundation
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