September 23, 2021 at 11:14 a.m.
Hodag Schools Foundation announces $290,000 donation
Hodag Schools Foundation announces $290,000 donation
By River News Staff-
In 2015, a donation from Dori Brown initiated the refurbishing and subsequent refinishing of the Steinway piano kept in the RHS Auditorium. One year later, that same facility saw major improvements after another substantial donation was received from Brown and her family. At that time the facility was renamed The John and Dori Brown Performing Arts Center.
This week, the Hodag Schools Foundation (HSF) announced an additional donation of $290,000 for continued improvements to that facility specifically for air conditioning for the auditorium.
The Brown family is donating $250,000. In addition, the Hodag Schools Foundation is donating $40,000 from an auditorium improvement fund established earlier by the Brown family.
"Air conditioning is crucial for year-round events held in the auditorium," Dori explained in a press release issued by HSF. "I wanted to build on the legacy that originated with the fine work on the Steinway piano and continue that legacy started by my children over five years ago. It needs to be done now, and I am honored to make it happen for the Rhinelander community."
Brown is indeed an incredible benefactor of Rhinelander and the arts community, HSF officials said in the press release. She is a lifetime member of the Northern Arts Council, co-founder of the Northern National Art Competition created over 30 years ago, and a continual donor for various non-profits in our community. John and Dori Brown relocated to Rhinelander in 1956 when Dr. Brown joined the Bump Medical Group. They have three children, who have helped support and grow the Brown legacy of giving back, the release states.
Julie Bronson, Secretary/Treasurer of HSF said, "I cannot overstate the generosity of Dori and her family. Their kindness will be on display for years to come as patrons enjoy arts productions in comfort, regardless of the season."
Air conditioning will enhance the enjoyment of all productions in the auditorium, whether they be concerts, plays or other community arts events, Brown emphasized.
"It's time for this upgrade," she said. "Even if I do not spend the entire year up North anymore, I think of Rhinelander as my community. I want the arts experience here to be the best possible."
HSF President Dave Heck noted, "There has been a culture change in the Rhinelander School District, and this shows not only in improved academics and activities, but also in a higher level of philanthropy. There is a direct correlation between this support and the success that leads to more opportunities for Rhinelander students and the entire community. We are so thankful to the Dori Brown family, and also thank the leadership of the school and school board."
School Board President Ron Counter echoed that appreciation.
"Dori's original donations in 2015 and 2016 were amazing, and this is an even larger, more generous gift - thank you to the entire Dori Brown family," he said.
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