News Briefs: Music Institute gala nets major haul; Historical society benefit takes in $152,000; Community foundation honors HPHS student

Winnetka’s The Music Institute of Chicago raised more than $900,000 at its annual gala benefit on May 20 at The Four Seasons Hotel Chicago.

The event featured performances by a New Orleans-style band, string and piano students from the Music Institute’s Academy for gifted pre-college musicians, faculty, and members of the music institute’s woodwinds, brass and percussion departments. The crowd was also treated to a surprise performance by Dushkin Award honoree Marcus Roberts, a jazz pianist, composer and educator.

Funding drives the institute’s mission. The Music Institute of Chicago is dedicated to providing music education and performance opportunities to thousands of individuals in all ages and backgrounds. The annual gala serves as a critical source of funding for the institute, providing funds for financial aid and scholarships, tuition-free community engagement, and neighborhood-based service activities.

The event’s Richard D. Colburn Award for Teaching Excellence went to Erica Anderson, head of the Music Institute’s Woodwinds, Brass, and Percussion Department and a member of the oboe faculty for nearly 25 years. The Cultural Visionary Award, presented by Winnetka’s Alexandra C. Nichols this year, was presented to Fran and John Edwardson, longtime supporters of the Music Institute who have made significant contributions in Chicago, Florida and internationally. While accepting the award, the Edwardsons announced a contribution of $75,000.

Great Scott! benefit is great success

The Winnetka Historical Society hosted its annual Gala on June 1, netting $152,000, to exceed the society’s expectations, according to press release from the society.

More than 140 guests attended the event, Great Scott! It’s a Garden Gala, which was held at the historic home of Katie Hazelwood, located at 270 Scott Ave. in Winnetka.

The evening began with a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a program featuring graduates of the Music Institute of Chicago. Throughout the evening, guests were entertained by a live auction, which included items such as an Italian getaway in Tuscany; a gallery tour of Crab Tree Farm; Chicago Cubs, Bears & Blackhawks tickets; and an Acadia National Park vacation.

A team trivia competition also added to the fun. Event co-chairs were Kristen Kleinops and Mary Westerman.

The funds raised from the Gala will go toward the WHS’s mission of honoring and preserving Winnetka’s heritage, gathering and sharing artifacts and stories of the past, and fostering meaningful connections among Winnetkans and the broader community, the release says.

Animal Crossing

Joseph Duffy and his son, Finn, witnessed this deer family crossing the Wilmette intersection of Dupee Place and Gregory Avenue in May.

HPHS student receives foundation’s annual award

The Highland Park Community Foundation selected Katerina Shutman as the recipient of the annual Personal Achievement Award.

A graduate of Highland Park High School, Shutman has demonstrated a “consistent commitment to her education as well as her long-term goals throughout her high school experience,” said Jean Meadowns, HPCF board member and Personal Achievement Award Committee chair.

“Katerina represents the essence of the Personal Achievement Award,” said Karen Reisin, committee member. “She is kind, personable, hard-working, self-confident, and determined, despite the obstacles she has faced.

“Katerina is also an animal lover who hopes to one day participate in the Veterinary Assistant program at CLC, and her ambition and hard work have already brought her closer to achieving this goal.”

Shutman’s hard work and dedication have been well rewarded by her recent employment at Green Bay Animal Hospital.

The HPCF Personal Achievement Award is presented annually to a graduating senior who has demonstrated resiliency, dedication and a positive influence on their community.

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