Highlighting Our Donors - KAREN AND JEFF SILBERMAN

The ongoing success of THE FUTURE IS HEAR campaign is thrilling to all of us at the San Diego Symphony and we are truly grateful for the generosity of all who have given at every level. It is a joy to be able to share stories from some of the donors to the campaign and hear about why they have chosen to support this important initiative.

The Symphony is particularly grateful to donors who continue their family’s tradition of multi-generational giving. For Karen and Jeff Silberman, continuing the philanthropic efforts and leadership established by their family is simply a part of who they are. We are thankful for Karen and Jeff’s $1 million campaign gift and are honored to be recognizing their support with the naming of “The Karen and Jeff Silberman Patio” at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park™.

Karen and Jeff sat down with us recently and revealed why they give to the arts and what The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park means to them and to the future of the Symphony and San Diego.

“It’s not like we said we have to do this; it’s been very symbiotic…a part of our DNA.” Karen Silberman

When you speak to Karen and Jeff Silberman about their gift to The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, the legacy of previous generations resonates. Karen’s grandmother was on the San Diego Symphony board. Jeff’s parents were among the founders of the UC San Diego Foundation, Karen’s mother later became the chair of that board, and now Jeff is the Foundation’s incoming board chair. Karen’s mother was on the La Jolla Playhouse board and now Karen herself is on that board. And the list goes on.

With their parents and grandparents as models, Karen and Jeff have embraced their family’s example of service and giving with a natural ease. While much of their philanthropy has been focused on education, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park represents a significant return to support of the arts.

“Our parents believed every city has to have the arts and arts education,” said Karen, “I want my five-year-old grandson growing up going to all kinds of events at The Rady Shell.”

“The new venue is such a beautiful metaphor for bringing the arts to a larger community,” said Jeff, “it’s going to be a tremendous asset for the entire city.”

And, says Jeff, as the Rady Shell helps redefine the arts in San Diego, so too will it change the perception of the Symphony. “This is a defining moment where the Symphony is becoming part of the broader community, literally and figuratively.”

Before our conversation ended Karen paused to thank someone whose devotion to the arts community represented generational giving beyond their family’s influence. “Part of our gift is to honor Warren Kessler,” said Karen, “He has been a tremendous leader and an unsung hero.”

THE FUTURE IS HEAR is a $125 million campaign supporting the San Diego Symphony and its wide range of artistic and community programing. With a mission to change lives through music and a steadfast belief that music belongs to all of us, the Symphony is committed to continually engaging, supporting and learning from its diverse community. Gifts at every level make an impact, and we are more that 88% of the way to a goal which will enable us to further enhance our programs and facilities for the enjoyment and benefit of all. To make your mark, e-mail campaign@sandiegosymphony.org or follow this link to learn more about the campaign, about the various giving opportunities, and about how you can help tell the world that THE FUTURE IS HEAR at San Diego Symphony!