Christopher Family Creates Eight Endowed Faculty Chairs

Back Row Left to Right: Kelley Christopher Schueler, Julie Christopher, Doris Christopher; Front Row Left to Right: Scott Christopher, Jay Christopher

Lutheran Summer Music is pleased to announce a transformational gift from the Christopher Family as part of the Strength and Stay Campaign. The Christopher Family’s longstanding support has been crucial in furthering the mission of Lutheran Summer Music, and their recent major gift has created eight new endowed faculty chairs, enriching the educational experience for students and nurturing musical talent for generations to come. These chairs include:

• The Christopher Family Endowed Violin Chair 

• The Christopher Family Endowed Viola Chair

• The Christopher Family Endowed Cello Chair

• The Christopher Family Endowed Woodwind Chair

• The Christopher Family Endowed Brass Chair

• The Christopher Family Endowed Soprano Chair

• The Christopher Family Endowed Tenor Chair

• The Christopher Family Endowed Bass/Baritone Chair

The Christopher Family joins the nearly 100 alumni, parents, friends, and families who have committed three-year pledges or legacy gifts as part of LSM’s Strength and Stay Campaign, which has raised $5.92 million to date.

"We are immensely grateful to the Christopher Family for their continued support and commitment to empowering young musicians," shares Thomas Bandar, Executive and Artistic Director of Lutheran Summer Music. "Their generosity has made a lasting impact on our organization, and we are honored to have the opportunity to express our deepest appreciation for their significant and lasting contribution."

The creation of the endowed faculty chairs represents a significant milestone for Lutheran Summer Music and reinforces the organization's position as a leader in faith-based music education. The Christopher Family philanthropy will help shape the future of music education and ensure that Lutheran Summer Music continues to thrive for years to come.

While awarding this gift, Kelley Christopher Schueler, Christopher Family Foundation Trustee and Board Chair shared, “The Christopher Family Foundation is humbled to support Lutheran Summer Music, where faith and music converge to inspire and uplift young hearts and minds. Our donation of endowed faculty chairs reflects our deep belief in nurturing talent through a foundation of Lutheran values, ensuring future generations experience the transformative power of music in the embrace of faith.”

Lutheran Summer Music extends its heartfelt thanks to the Christopher Family and the Christopher Family Foundation for their remarkable generosity and dedication to the advancement of music education. The impact of this transformative gift will be felt by students, faculty, and the broader music community, leaving a legacy that will resonate for years to come.