The Juilliard School has received a $60 million gift from Bruce and Suzie Kovner for a new scholarship program, writes Allan Kozinn in Wednesday’s (10/9) New York Times. It is the largest one-time donation in the school’s history. “Our priority is scholarship assistance and a reduction of debt for our students, so that when they go out into the field, where there’s no guarantee they will be highly compensated, they are not encumbered by the cost of their schooling,” says Juilliard President Joseph W. Polisi in the article. “The program, which Mr. Polisi said will begin immediately, allows for 25 Kovner fellowships at first, with a gradual increase to 52 in 2018. The fellowships will cover all of a student’s costs, including tuition, supplies and room and board—a total of about $55,690—plus a stipend to cover travel, books and equipment.… The fellowships would be available to current students as well as to newcomers. Students cannot, however, apply for them…. The fellowships will be awarded on the basis of artistic accomplishment rather than financial need. ‘However, 91 percent of Juilliard students also have need,’ Mr. Polisi said.” Bruce Kovner, a music-lover and amateur keyboard player, has been chairman of Juilliard’s board since 2001.
Posted October 10, 2013
