Daniel R. Gustin Director’s Fund honors director emeritus
October 8, 2018
DANIEL R. GUSTIN MADE INNOVATION AND GROWTH the twin hallmarks of his 18-year tenure as Director of the Irving S. Gilmore International Keyboard Festival. He brought more concerts to Kalamazoo by doubling the length of the Festival to 17 days and creating the annual Rising Stars and biennial Piano Masters Series of concerts. He helped aspiring young artists by overseeing increases in Gilmore educational programming. And he expanded the horizons for all Gilmore patrons by presenting extraordinary and diverse Festivals, discovering new and intriguing artists, commissioning 39 important new works for the piano, and collaborating with regional, national, and international organizations such as the Ravinia Festival, University Musical Society, and Carnegie Hall.
Along the way, Gustin also became an extremely well-liked and highly-respected member of the Kalamazoo community. His tenure was looked upon with universal acclaim, and his final Festival—held in April and May of this year—was a resounding success.
Shortly after Mr. Gustin announced his retirement last year, a confidential effort was undertaken to establish an endowed fund in honor of his visionary leadership and outstanding career. More than $1 million has been raised to date for the Daniel R. Gustin Director’s Fund, which will be used to provide support toward the commissioning of new works, launching new artistic initiatives, and taking full advantage of opportunities for organizational advancement.
“Under Dan’s leadership, The Gilmore flourished,” said Director Pierre van der Westhuizen. “The Gustin Fund is the perfect opportunity to make a gift that both supports the organization and honors his 18 years of extraordinary commitment.”
To make a gift to the Daniel R. Gustin Director’s Fund, visit thegilmore.org/donate and indicate in the appropriate field that Dan Gustin is the honoree. Donors may also send a check, payable to The Gilmore with “Gustin Fund” in the memo line. Please mail to The Gilmore, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 101, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. Mr. Gustin will be informed of all gifts.