Fine Arts Patrons Society
The Fine Arts Patrons Society was created to benefit the over 600 Millikin student-artists participating in nearly 20 degree programs. Membership dues provide budget support and help create special projects which might otherwise go unfunded.

The society’s mission is to bring together the university and individuals who believe in the promotion and support of the fine and performing arts and the student-artist at Millikin University. The society works closely with the College of Fine Arts, alumni and development office and alumni and parents in promoting Millikin’s fine arts and holding fundraising activities to support Millikin’s student-artists.

Patron Society Benefits
Society members receive regular updates about upcoming programs, advance notice of special ticket offers and invitations to artist lectures and receptions. Members are also invited to special events held in conjunction with appearances by Millikin fine arts students and alumni in venues around the country and receive bi-yearly issues of the Patrons Society newsletter, "Spotlight." (Click here to see the most recent issue.)

The Patrons Society Supports:
Guest Artists/Special Projects
Among the guest artists who have conducted extended master classes and workshops on campus are: Tim Shew ’80, former “Les Miserables” Broadway cast member; Joseph Machota ’93, former “Mamma Mia” Broadway cast member; Alan Held ’81, internationally-known opera singer; and Jodi Benson ’85, the voice of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” These experiences are integral aspects of student-artists’ growth and maturation.

Among the special projects that add value to a Millikin education are:

• The annual New York City Showcase for musical theatre majors, who audition for casting and production agents in New York
• The New Music Symposium with the New York New Music Ensemble
• Touring opportunities for student ensembles

 

Talent Awards
Students can spend up to 30-40 hours a week outside of class honing their skills in studios and practice rooms. This commitment often makes for long hours that prohibit part-time work. Talent awards help fill financial gaps and enable Millikin students to pursue their work with passion and dedication.

Academic Department Support
Patrons may also designate their gifts in support of a specific
academic department within the College of Fine Arts:
• Art Department
• School of Music
• Department of Theatre and Dance
Activities made possible in 2006-07 included senior art shows, special guest lectures at College of Fine Arts events and bringing a guest artistic director from New York for the spring production of “A Chorus Line.”

Join Us
Participation in the Patrons Society is offered at a variety of levels. New Millikin graduates may join the society at reduced rates for the first five years following graduation. For example, members of the class of 2007 may join for $10 for the first year; members of the class of 2006 may join for $20, etc.

Other annual levels are $25 for special teachers levels (elementary, secondary and college); $50 for standard membership; $100, white; $250, blue; $500, bronze; $750, silver; and $1,000, gold.

Click here for a brochure and mail-in membership form.

Interested in giving to the Patrons Society? Click here to make your gift online.

Additional Information
If you would like more information about the College of Fine Arts Patrons Society, contact Barry Pearson, dean of the College of Fine Arts, at 217-362-6499, or click here to send him an e-mail.

CFA Patrons Society hotline: 217-362-6430