Big Announcement! The Houston Symphony League won a Gold Award of Excellence from the League of American Orchestras’ Volunteer Council and three Recognized Project Awards from the Texas Association for Symphony Orchestras (TASO).
The Houston Symphony League won a Gold Award of Excellence from the League of American Orchestras (LAO) Volunteer Council for its project Engaging Membership for Retention. This project highlights what the Membership Committee did to grow our League membership through retention efforts. The lead for the project was Leslie Nossaman. The Volunteer Council’s Gold Awards of Excellence honor best-in-class programs and initiatives that have made a significant impact on their orchestras. Only seven Gold Awards were given this year.
The project will be presented to symphony volunteers at the upcoming LAO Conference in Salt Lake City on June 11-13, 2025. Leslie Nossaman will make the presentation and lead the discussion at the conference. LAO is a North American organization whose membership encompasses nearly 800-member symphony, chamber, youth, and collegiate orchestras in all 50 US states and Canada.
The Engaging Membership for Retention project also won a Recognized Project Award from TASO. In addition, two other projects – Shop, Sip, Stroll, and Dine for a Cause, a project chaired by Deborah Laws and Raquel Lewis, and Getting Them in the Door, submitted by Betty Tutor and Fran Peterson on behalf of the League’s Symphonic Social Connections – were also awarded Recognized Project Awards. These three projects will be presented at the annual TASO Conference in Waco on March 21-22. TASO’s membership includes 16 Texas Symphony Leagues.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HS_LogoPrimary-300x73.png00Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HS_LogoPrimary-300x73.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2025-01-28 17:58:462025-01-28 17:59:34Awards Announced for LAO and TASO
The Houston Symphony League (HSL) Book Club provides a dedicated timeframe to reflect, share, explore, socialize, engage, and expand our knowledge regarding our common bond and love of music. The HSL Book Club, founded in 2013 during the HSL President tenure of Kelli Cohen Fein, recaptured in 2015 during the HSL President tenure of Betty Tutor, and steadfastly pursued by all subsequent HSL Presidents, encourages reading as a path to a deeper understanding of music in general . More specifically, the HSL Book Club provides a deeper understanding of the upcoming Houston Symphony symphonic music repertoire, a more robust and cohesive HSL community, and more integral involvement of the individual in the collective consciousness of both HSL and HS missions. The HSL Book Club offers a delightful opportunity to embrace and understand music and literature in novel ways.
Ginny Garrett, the esteemed HSL Historian for many years, embodied the HSL Book Club’s consummate facilitator from 2013 through 2022. She demonstrated an impressive breadth of knowledge and an entertaining manner in imparting information, stimulating thought and conversation that broadened everyone’s depth of understanding of the music, the composer, and the text at hand. All attendees engaged in lively conversation, offering observant and thought-provoking insights. Likewise, the HSL Book Club setting at the homes of Diane Gendel and Kelli Cohen Fein was well-attended, providing convivial, illuminating discussion, social engagement, and always delectable refreshments for each morning session. Further enriching the HSL Book Club’s meaningful impact, beginning in 2023, the illustrious and learned Robert Chanon assumed the role of a vibrant facilitator, and Betty Tutor joined Kelli Cohen Fein and Diane Gendel as a co-chair and hostess.
A few of the myriad highlights of the more than 10 years of HSL Book Club’s rich experiences must be mentioned as we have been fortunate to have benefited from so many talents:
Our guest facilitator, Lucy Lewis, presided with great aplomb as she presented Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan; Ann Thurmond graced us with her prodigious piano performance at one book club session; Harry Gendel was infinitely generous to provide Zoom availability during the pandemic; Ginny Garrett taught all the Book Club attendees to conduct at another memorable session and Robert Chanon captivated with his presentation on the genius of Leonard Bernstein.
The HSL Book Club has proven itself over the last 11 years to be a successful educational and social activity for our members. Our facilitator studies the HS season of slated works each year to find inspiration for pertinent, timely, and relevant books. The opportunity to learn more about featured composers is a powerful draw for HSL members. We recognize that our learning curves remain vertical despite years of exposure to these great composers and their works. The Book Club represents an inspirational and meaningful vehicle for our individual and collective music awareness. We meet twice a year – Spring and Fall from 10-11:30 am at the home of one of the co-chairs. The time together provides a “measure” of education, friendship, and connection to music to the Houston Symphony and the Houston Symphony League members.
An impressive list of some of the formidable books the HSL Book Club has embraced through the years, beginning in 2013 to the present :
Why Mahler? How One Man and Ten Symphonies Changed Our World – Norman Lebrecht
Mahler – A Life by Johnathan Carr.
Changing Lives: Gustavo Dudamel, El Sistema and the Transformative Power of Music – Tricia Tunstall
Beethoven – Maynard Solomon
New Worlds of Dvorak-Searching in America for the Composer’s Inner Life – Michael B. Beckerman
Hallelujah Junction – Composing an American Life by John Adams.
Sergei Rachmaninoff – A Lifetime in Music — Sergei Bertensson and Jay Leyda.
The Noise of Time – Julian Barnes
Dinner With Lenny – Jonathan Cottrell
George Gershwin: An Intimate Portrait– Walter Rimler.
Sounds and Sweet Airs: The Forgotten Women of Classical Music – Anna Beer.
Schumann, the Face and the Masks – Judith Chernaik
At the Piano with Robert and Clara Schumann, edited by Maurice Hinson –Recommended by Darlene Clark – re sightreading practice
The Silent Musician-Why the Conductor Matters – Mark Wugglesworth
The Lives of Isaac Stern by David Schoenbaum.
Mozart’s Women by Jane Glover
The Infinite Variety of Music – Leonard Bernstein
Tchaikovsky’s Empire – A New Life of Russia’s Greatest Composer – Simon Morrison.
Every Valley – Charles King
Join us in the learning and the friendship in pursuit of our common bond and passion for music !!!
“…For music consists of harmony, and harmony becomes far more complete if all the voices collaborate to form it.” ~Johann Sebastian Bach
https://i0.wp.com/www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DALL%C2%B7E-2024-12-29-10.58.32-A-visually-appealing-graphic-for-the-Houston-Symphony-Book-Club-featuring-a-sophisticated-and-artistic-design.-Include-elements-like-an-open-book-wit.webp?fit=1024%2C1024&ssl=110241024Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HS_LogoPrimary-300x73.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2024-12-29 16:59:212024-12-29 17:54:13Houston Symphony League Book Club History and Invitation
The Houston Symphony League held its annual Fall Membership Luncheon & Fashion Show on September 18, 2024, in the newly redecorated ballroom at The Junior League of Houston. The event attracted a vibrant crowd and offered an afternoon filled with elegance, entertainment, and a deep sense of community spirit.
The event was co-chaired by Cynthia Wolff and Paige Cawthon, whose dedication and vision were instrumental in making the luncheon a success.They highlighted the sponsorship of the Symphony’s First Chair Violinist, Sophia Silivos in a brief interview and violin performance showing the League’s unwavering commitment to inspiring a love of music and the arts throughout our community. Gorgeous professional models and a few key volunteerstook the runway showcasingthe exclusive launch of designer Christy Lynn’s Fall line, which captivated attendees with its chic and innovative designs.
A standout moment of the luncheon was the address by League President Heidi Rockecharlie who introduced HSSociety Board President,Barbara Burgerand this year’s League board members, graciously recognizing each for their commitment to the Symphony in an unprecedented move to make this year moreabout recognition and appreciation of League volunteers.
Rockecharliealso unveiled innovative strategiesto efficiently increase fundraising and reduce costs for greater success, including offering new membership level benefits like Baccarat crystal at the $2,000 level, generously donated by LeaguePresident-Elect, Leslie Nossaman.
“Only three months into the season, and we already have enough sponsorships to reduce costs by nearly 50% for some events meaning more fundscan be allocated directly to The Houston Symphony from the League!” Rockecharlie emphasized. “We are incredibly thankful to everyone who has participated, especially Christy Lynn, for underwriting the costs associated with her fashion show, and donating a percentage of sales to the League, making this event even more special.”
In the crowd: Saks Fifth Avenue General Manager Heidi Turney, Beth Wolff, Lesha Elsenbrook, Betty Tutor, Elsie Eckert, Saula Valente, Nancy Willerson, Helen Shaffer, Sharon Brier, Kirk Kveton, Daniel Irion, KarenPayne,Mary Sage, Seema Sharma, Teresa Cox-Reading, Alecia Lawyer, Diane Gendel, Alex Blair, Christina Sacco,Hasina Stark, Libi Lebel, Jerre Parsons Williams, Nick Rockecharlie, Alicia Jansen, Anna Dean, Astrid Van Dyke, Deborah Laws, Sandra Porter, Kim Padgett, Helen Balensiefen Bow, Kirin Wells, Harriet Gertner, Amy Glenn Becker
League models: Cheryl Byington, Tracie Welch-Brenton, Raquel Lewis, and Blanca Jolly.
https://i0.wp.com/www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/HSL-Luncheon-Email.gif?fit=900%2C500&ssl=1500900Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HS_LogoPrimary-300x73.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2024-11-01 17:23:152024-12-05 18:02:40The Houston Symphony League’s Fall Luncheon & Fashion Show was a Resounding Success
The Houston Symphony League was honored with two awards at the LAO Conference
CONGRATS TO BETTY TUTOR AND FRAN FAWCETT PETERSON FOR THEIR LAO PROJECT!
Congratulations to League members Betty Tutor and Fran Fawcett Peterson for their Gold Award of Excellence-winning presentation, “Re-Imagining Auctions,” at the League of American Orchestras Conference!
In this presentation, Betty and Fran discussed the success of the Houston Symphony Ball Auction and the auction parties. Their creative and unique approach to the Ball Auction was received with enthusiasm by both the presentation attendees and LAO, who included the following positive comments: Well Produced, Great Q and A, Great Content, Loved Luncheon Process, Can Use Approach on Smaller Scale, Took Away Ideas, Clever. Please join us in congratulating Betty and Fran!
CONGRATS ALSO GO TO DEB HAPP AND LESLIE NOSSAMAN FOR THEIR LAO PROJECT!
Kudos to League members Deb Happ and Leslie Nossaman for their Gold Award of Excellence-winning presentation, “Growing Membership 2022-2023: Focus on What Works” at the League of American Orchestras Conference!
Volunteer organizations from all over the country have reported difficulty with maintaining and growing their membership, and this project provided factual and measurable ways to achieve success. This project was year three of a five-year plan, which was built upon researching HSL membership history and initiating new strategies to target potential members. Attendees appreciated the fact-based strategic plan, which showed how the Houston Symphony League bucked the trend, increased membership by 32% over the previous year, and achieved a 94% renewal rate!
Thanks, Deb and Leslie, for showcasing our Membership Success!
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HS_LogoPrimary-300x73.png00Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HS_LogoPrimary-300x73.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2024-08-04 20:49:092024-09-08 21:08:47League of American Orchestras Awards 2024
Donna Mello Receives the Ellen Kelley 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award
The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony league and the Houston Symphony. The Award was established in 1984 and named after its first recipient, Ellen Kelley. The honoree has special qualities of purposeful involvement, the ability to inspire others, meets goals with a vision for the present and the future, hard work in the trenches, productivity, ingenuity and ongoing support and leadership are all important qualities of the recipient.
Donna Mello truly exemplifies these qualities and has been named the recipient of the 2024 Ellen Kelley Volunteerof the Year Award. Donna is known for positive energy, creativity, and infectious enthusiasm for working with others. She holds a degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management from the University of Houston and served on the prestigious Gourmet Night Committee for three years. As a member of the Consular Ball Committee of Houston (14 years), she worked to strengthen ties between international consulates and the Houston business community. As Chair of the 1996 Consular Ball honoring Italy & raising $70,000 for scholarships, the World Jaycee President presented Donna with “The International JC of the Day” award.
By chance, a publicist suggested that Donna join the Houston Symphony League. Since 1997, Donna has been an enthusiastic League member chairing Student Concert Ushers for eight years (1998-2008), the Instrument Petting Zoo (2016, 2017, 2018), Family Concerts/Event Volunteers (2019), and the Symphony Store (2002). Donna served as Recording Secretary, Vice-President of Service (2008), and Vice-President of Arrangements (2021, 2022). She chaired or co-chaired League Night Out (2016, 2023), the Spring Membership Event (2021), and the Musician/Staff Breakfast (2023).
Donna was a constant presence at the Puppet Shows, Ima Hogg Competitions and Magical Musical Mornings. She volunteers for Family Concert Craft Nights, Membership Renewal activities, the President’s Luncheon, the newly created Concierge Program, the Symphony Ball Silent Auction and wherever “hands” are needed. Donna’s favorite role is with the Instrument Petting Zoo demonstrating how to hold a violin.
Donna has added beauty to League meetings through floral arrangements created with skills learned in her parents’ flower shop. Her creativity as an award winning 22k gold- granulation jewelry artist can also be found in the internationally juried 2013 book Showcase 500 Art Necklaces. Currently, Donna is an Executive Assistant and Office Manager for Utility Global. She attends both classical and POPS concerts and is grateful for the many friends made while volunteering and the new friendships to come!
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HS_LogoPrimary-300x73.png00Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HS_LogoPrimary-300x73.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2024-06-10 19:03:122024-06-11 13:44:57Ellen Kelley 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award
As Co-Vice Presidents of the Houston Symphony League Education Committee, Rita Aron and I, in concert with Allison Conlan, Director of Community Engagement, are honored to present this year’s Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cell Award to Mary Fusillo.
Mary is a Houston native and is committed to the city and its vibrant arts community. She has been a member of the Houston Symphony League for over 25 years and is an ardent volunteer and advocate for the Symphony’s education programs.
Mary has long served as a volunteer for the Student and Family Concerts. Despite the rigors of being a business owner, mother of twins, and wife, Mary has always made time to volunteer. As this year’s League President, Mary strongly advocated for the Student and Family Concerts. In every eCounterpoint newsletter and at every Board meeting, Mary never failed to mention the importance of the Symphony’s education offerings and encourage League members to sign up and volunteer with her. She even put in a good word about the Student Concerts when she appeared on KIAH Channel 39 in February.
Allison had this to say –
Upon reflecting on the past several years of working with Mary at our Education events, I’ve come to appreciate her presence in profound ways.
First, Mary possesses an innate ability to discern and address the needs of any situation. I have found myself quietly relieved when she is around, knowing that she will spring into action with a solution before I have the chance to articulate the problem. Mary’s focus is always centered on ensuring the best possible experience for students, a trait I deeply appreciate.
Second, Mary’s infectious energy ensures that any event she attends is bound to be a memorable one. Her sense of humor and warmth have a remarkable way of fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Witnessing volunteers share laughter and forge meaningful connections is truly a testament to her ability to uplift and inspire those around her.
Last, with the countless responsibilities she holds in her role as the Houston Symphony League’s President, her unwavering commitment and consistent presence at our Education events underscores the importance of our collective efforts to serve our community. I’m truly grateful for Mary’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of quality and compassion, reminding us of the profound significance of the work we can achieve together.
Mary’s presence is not just felt; it’s cherished, celebrated, and deeply appreciated by the Houston Symphony family. Congratulations, Mary!
Awards Announced for LAO and TASO
/in Award/by Tracie Welch-BrentonBig Announcement! The Houston Symphony League won a Gold Award of Excellence from the League of American Orchestras’ Volunteer Council and three Recognized Project Awards from the Texas Association for Symphony Orchestras (TASO).
The Houston Symphony League won a Gold Award of Excellence from the League of American Orchestras (LAO) Volunteer Council for its project Engaging Membership for Retention. This project highlights what the Membership Committee did to grow our League membership through retention efforts. The lead for the project was Leslie Nossaman. The Volunteer Council’s Gold Awards of Excellence honor best-in-class programs and initiatives that have made a significant impact on their orchestras. Only seven Gold Awards were given this year.
The project will be presented to symphony volunteers at the upcoming LAO Conference in Salt Lake City on June 11-13, 2025. Leslie Nossaman will make the presentation and lead the discussion at the conference. LAO is a North American organization whose membership encompasses nearly 800-member symphony, chamber, youth, and collegiate orchestras in all 50 US states and Canada.
The Engaging Membership for Retention project also won a Recognized Project Award from TASO. In addition, two other projects – Shop, Sip, Stroll, and Dine for a Cause, a project chaired by Deborah Laws and Raquel Lewis, and Getting Them in the Door, submitted by Betty Tutor and Fran Peterson on behalf of the League’s Symphonic Social Connections – were also awarded Recognized Project Awards. These three projects will be presented at the annual TASO Conference in Waco on March 21-22. TASO’s membership includes 16 Texas Symphony Leagues.
Houston Symphony League Book Club History and Invitation
/in News/by Tracie Welch-BrentonThe Houston Symphony League (HSL) Book Club provides a dedicated timeframe to reflect, share, explore, socialize, engage, and expand our knowledge regarding our common bond and love of music. The HSL Book Club, founded in 2013 during the HSL President tenure of Kelli Cohen Fein, recaptured in 2015 during the HSL President tenure of Betty Tutor, and steadfastly pursued by all subsequent HSL Presidents, encourages reading as a path to a deeper understanding of music in general . More specifically, the HSL Book Club provides a deeper understanding of the upcoming Houston Symphony symphonic music repertoire, a more robust and cohesive HSL community, and more integral involvement of the individual in the collective consciousness of both HSL and HS missions. The HSL Book Club offers a delightful opportunity to embrace and understand music and literature in novel ways.
Ginny Garrett, the esteemed HSL Historian for many years, embodied the HSL Book Club’s consummate facilitator from 2013 through 2022. She demonstrated an impressive breadth of knowledge and an entertaining manner in imparting information, stimulating thought and conversation that broadened everyone’s depth of understanding of the music, the composer, and the text at hand. All attendees engaged in lively conversation, offering observant and thought-provoking insights. Likewise, the HSL Book Club setting at the homes of Diane Gendel and Kelli Cohen Fein was well-attended, providing convivial, illuminating discussion, social engagement, and always delectable refreshments for each morning session. Further enriching the HSL Book Club’s meaningful impact, beginning in 2023, the illustrious and learned Robert Chanon assumed the role of a vibrant facilitator, and Betty Tutor joined Kelli Cohen Fein and Diane Gendel as a co-chair and hostess.
A few of the myriad highlights of the more than 10 years of HSL Book Club’s rich experiences must be mentioned as we have been fortunate to have benefited from so many talents:
Our guest facilitator, Lucy Lewis, presided with great aplomb as she presented Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan; Ann Thurmond graced us with her prodigious piano performance at one book club session; Harry Gendel was infinitely generous to provide Zoom availability during the pandemic; Ginny Garrett taught all the Book Club attendees to conduct at another memorable session and Robert Chanon captivated with his presentation on the genius of Leonard Bernstein.
The HSL Book Club has proven itself over the last 11 years to be a successful educational and social activity for our members. Our facilitator studies the HS season of slated works each year to find inspiration for pertinent, timely, and relevant books. The opportunity to learn more about featured composers is a powerful draw for HSL members. We recognize that our learning curves remain vertical despite years of exposure to these great composers and their works. The Book Club represents an inspirational and meaningful vehicle for our individual and collective music awareness. We meet twice a year – Spring and Fall from 10-11:30 am at the home of one of the co-chairs. The time together provides a “measure” of education, friendship, and connection to music to the Houston Symphony and the Houston Symphony League members.
An impressive list of some of the formidable books the HSL Book Club has embraced through the years, beginning in 2013 to the present :
Why Mahler? How One Man and Ten Symphonies Changed Our World – Norman Lebrecht
Mahler – A Life by Johnathan Carr.
Changing Lives: Gustavo Dudamel, El Sistema and the Transformative Power of Music – Tricia Tunstall
Beethoven – Maynard Solomon
New Worlds of Dvorak-Searching in America for the Composer’s Inner Life – Michael B. Beckerman
Hallelujah Junction – Composing an American Life by John Adams.
Sergei Rachmaninoff – A Lifetime in Music — Sergei Bertensson and Jay Leyda.
The Noise of Time – Julian Barnes
Dinner With Lenny – Jonathan Cottrell
George Gershwin: An Intimate Portrait– Walter Rimler.
Sounds and Sweet Airs: The Forgotten Women of Classical Music – Anna Beer.
Schumann, the Face and the Masks – Judith Chernaik
At the Piano with Robert and Clara Schumann, edited by Maurice Hinson –Recommended by Darlene Clark – re sightreading practice
The Silent Musician-Why the Conductor Matters – Mark Wugglesworth
The Lives of Isaac Stern by David Schoenbaum.
Mozart’s Women by Jane Glover
The Infinite Variety of Music – Leonard Bernstein
Tchaikovsky’s Empire – A New Life of Russia’s Greatest Composer – Simon Morrison.
Every Valley – Charles King
Join us in the learning and the friendship in pursuit of our common bond and passion for music !!!
“…For music consists of harmony, and harmony becomes far more complete if all the voices collaborate to form it.” ~Johann Sebastian Bach
The Houston Symphony League’s Fall Luncheon & Fashion Show was a Resounding Success
/in Event/by Tracie Welch-BrentonThe Houston Symphony League held its annual Fall Membership Luncheon & Fashion Show on September 18, 2024, in the newly redecorated ballroom at The Junior League of Houston. The event attracted a vibrant crowd and offered an afternoon filled with elegance, entertainment, and a deep sense of community spirit.
League of American Orchestras Awards 2024
/in Award/by Tracie Welch-BrentonThe Houston Symphony League was honored with two awards at the LAO Conference
CONGRATS TO BETTY TUTOR AND FRAN FAWCETT PETERSON FOR THEIR LAO PROJECT!
Congratulations to League members Betty Tutor and Fran Fawcett Peterson for their Gold Award of Excellence-winning presentation, “Re-Imagining Auctions,” at the League of American Orchestras Conference!
In this presentation, Betty and Fran discussed the success of the Houston Symphony Ball Auction and the auction parties. Their creative and unique approach to the Ball Auction was received with enthusiasm by both the presentation attendees and LAO, who included the following positive comments: Well Produced, Great Q and A, Great Content, Loved Luncheon Process, Can Use Approach on Smaller Scale, Took Away Ideas, Clever. Please join us in congratulating Betty and Fran!
CONGRATS ALSO GO TO DEB HAPP AND LESLIE NOSSAMAN FOR THEIR LAO PROJECT!
Kudos to League members Deb Happ and Leslie Nossaman for their Gold Award of Excellence-winning presentation, “Growing Membership 2022-2023: Focus on What Works” at the League of American Orchestras Conference!
Volunteer organizations from all over the country have reported difficulty with maintaining and growing their membership, and this project provided factual and measurable ways to achieve success. This project was year three of a five-year plan, which was built upon researching HSL membership history and initiating new strategies to target potential members. Attendees appreciated the fact-based strategic plan, which showed how the Houston Symphony League bucked the trend, increased membership by 32% over the previous year, and achieved a 94% renewal rate!
Thanks, Deb and Leslie, for showcasing our Membership Success!
Ellen Kelley 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award
/in Award/by Tracie Welch-BrentonDonna Mello Receives the
Ellen Kelley
2024 Volunteer of the Year Award
The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony league and the Houston Symphony. The Award was established in 1984 and named after its first recipient, Ellen Kelley. The honoree has special qualities of purposeful involvement, the ability to inspire others, meets goals with a vision for the present and the future, hard work in the trenches, productivity, ingenuity and ongoing support and leadership are all important qualities of the recipient.
Donna Mello truly exemplifies these qualities and has been named the recipient of the 2024 Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award. Donna is known for positive energy, creativity, and infectious enthusiasm for working with others. She holds a degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management from the University of Houston and served on the prestigious Gourmet Night Committee for three years. As a member of the Consular Ball Committee of Houston (14 years), she worked to strengthen ties between international consulates and the Houston business community. As Chair of the 1996 Consular Ball honoring Italy & raising $70,000 for scholarships, the World Jaycee President presented Donna with “The International JC of the Day” award.
By chance, a publicist suggested that Donna join the Houston Symphony League. Since 1997, Donna has been an enthusiastic League member chairing Student Concert Ushers for eight years (1998-2008), the Instrument Petting Zoo (2016, 2017, 2018), Family Concerts/Event Volunteers (2019), and the Symphony Store (2002). Donna served as Recording Secretary, Vice-President of Service (2008), and Vice-President of Arrangements (2021, 2022). She chaired or co-chaired League Night Out (2016, 2023), the Spring Membership Event (2021), and the Musician/Staff Breakfast (2023).
Donna was a constant presence at the Puppet Shows, Ima Hogg Competitions and Magical Musical Mornings. She volunteers for Family Concert Craft Nights, Membership Renewal activities, the President’s Luncheon, the newly created Concierge Program, the Symphony Ball Silent Auction and wherever “hands” are needed. Donna’s favorite role is with the Instrument Petting Zoo demonstrating how to hold a violin.
Donna has added beauty to League meetings through floral arrangements created with skills learned in her parents’ flower shop. Her creativity as an award winning 22k gold- granulation jewelry artist can also be found in the internationally juried 2013 book Showcase 500 Art Necklaces. Currently, Donna is an Executive Assistant and Office Manager for Utility Global. She attends both classical and POPS concerts and is grateful for the many friends made while volunteering and the new friendships to come!
Mary Fusillo: Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award Winner 2024
/in Award/by William CavanaughAs Co-Vice Presidents of the Houston Symphony League Education Committee, Rita Aron and I, in concert with Allison Conlan, Director of Community Engagement, are honored to present this year’s Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cell Award to Mary Fusillo.
Mary is a Houston native and is committed to the city and its vibrant arts community. She has been a member of the Houston Symphony League for over 25 years and is an ardent volunteer and advocate for the Symphony’s education programs.
Mary has long served as a volunteer for the Student and Family Concerts. Despite the rigors of being a business owner, mother of twins, and wife, Mary has always made time to volunteer. As this year’s League President, Mary strongly advocated for the Student and Family Concerts. In every eCounterpoint newsletter and at every Board meeting, Mary never failed to mention the importance of the Symphony’s education offerings and encourage League members to sign up and volunteer with her. She even put in a good word about the Student Concerts when she appeared on KIAH Channel 39 in February.
Allison had this to say –
Upon reflecting on the past several years of working with Mary at our Education events, I’ve come to appreciate her presence in profound ways.
First, Mary possesses an innate ability to discern and address the needs of any situation. I have found myself quietly relieved when she is around, knowing that she will spring into action with a solution before I have the chance to articulate the problem. Mary’s focus is always centered on ensuring the best possible experience for students, a trait I deeply appreciate.
Second, Mary’s infectious energy ensures that any event she attends is bound to be a memorable one. Her sense of humor and warmth have a remarkable way of fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Witnessing volunteers share laughter and forge meaningful connections is truly a testament to her ability to uplift and inspire those around her.
Last, with the countless responsibilities she holds in her role as the Houston Symphony League’s President, her unwavering commitment and consistent presence at our Education events underscores the importance of our collective efforts to serve our community. I’m truly grateful for Mary’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of quality and compassion, reminding us of the profound significance of the work we can achieve together.
Mary’s presence is not just felt; it’s cherished, celebrated, and deeply appreciated by the Houston Symphony family. Congratulations, Mary!