Students gather by the hundreds to share their gratitude with donors
With an extraordinary outpouring of handwritten letters, Arts Academy students expressed their thankfulness for life-changing scholarships and experiences made possible by donor generosity.
On October 8, 2025, Interlochen’s Corson Auditorium was filled with the hum of excited student voices. As with many Wednesdays throughout the Arts Academy school year, the students were gathered for a Community Meeting. Today’s gathering held a unique purpose, however: a focus on gratitude to the people who made these students’ educations possible.
As the program began, individuals from Interlochen’s Philanthropy department and the Student Philanthropy Team spoke on the importance of gratitude for donors who support the Interlochen Annual Fund, endowed and annual scholarships, and other impactful areas like visiting artists and tours. Then the real fun began. Pens, cards, and envelopes scattered across tables as students eagerly began composing letters to the individuals whose generosity is changing their lives.
Julian, a student who has attended both Arts Camp and Arts Academy, had this to say about his experience:
The impact that donors have on students continues to grow. This year, 84% of Academy students and 53% of Camp students received financial aid. 4,369 individuals gave to the Annual Fund, 1,194 of whom are alumni. Those Interlochen Evergreens, who choose to give on a monthly basis, number 284; their recurring gifts are valued at over $148k annually.
But the impact of donor generosity goes far beyond what statistics can show. For many students, scholarships received through the Annual Fund are the deciding factor that enables them to attend Arts Camp or Arts Academy. Access to renowned faculty, world-famous guest artists, and top-of-the-line equipment and facilities make the Interlochen experience a life-changing one that prepares these students for a lifetime of creativity and growth. Each thank you letter written to donors that day was a testament to the power of arts education in sparking confidence and purpose in young students.
Reflecting on his involvement with the Student Philanthropy Team, senior Beckett Furguson had this to say: “Being part of the Student Philanthropy Team matters to me because it allows us to be a bridge between students and the community that supports us. It helps our peers understand that scholarships, guest artists, and even the spaces where we create—all of it is made possible by generosity.”
“You can open up an incredible opportunity for another student like Julian or Beckett,” says Stephanie Pierce, Executive Director of Annual Giving. “Young artists need a place where they can focus on their craft and find their people. That place is Interlochen, and your gift makes that experience become a reality.”