As chair of the board of trustees, I want to personally thank you for your generosity. Your gifts are deeply appreciated and are vital to ensuring that the musical environment we have created here at Berklee maintains its vibrancy.

This past year, the entire college community examined Berklee’s strengths and its position in the music and educational arenas. Important new strategic initiatives were developed as a result of this process.

It is clear that in the period ahead, Berklee will make ever-increasing and important contributions to the quality of music education. Berklee will be significantly expanding the reach of its educational opportunities to a broader music community, and will lead in ways to ensure that music will improve our society.

I have been inspired by the passion, commitment, and willingness to assist that continues to characterize this community. As this annual report attests, we have received expanded assistance from all our constituencies.

I want to express special appreciation to trustee Phoebe Zaslove Milligan for her commitment to the success of the Berklee New Trustees, which provides increasing funds each year for the City Music Program of educational opportunity for talented urban teens.

Phoebe and her husband, Charles, have forged a partnership between Berklee and Schwab Capital Markets and Trading Group. We are very grateful to Schwab for its leadership in once again being lead sponsor for the gala this year. I am also grateful to trustees Scott Benson, Mike Dreese, and Don Rose for their leadership and generosity in making this the most successful year yet for the gala.

I also want to thank Board of Trustees Vice Chair Vivian C. Beard. Vivian was one of several trustees establishing the Sarah Vaughan Endowed Scholarship Fund. Once again, Vivian, who is a well-respected jazz singer, contributed her artistry in a benefit performance for this important scholarship fund.

I want to welcome new trustees Bill Holodnak, Robert Morrison, Eli Newberger, Phil Ramone, and Rhoda Sapers, who bring talent, expertise, enthusiasm, and a strong commitment to advancing Berklee’s mission.

I also welcome the return of Alan Reese for another appointment to the board.

Thank you all for your support. You are investing in a community and an institution that has continuously embraced change and innovation, and is most deserving of our support.

Sincerely,

Allan T. McLean
Board Chair