The Huisking family Foundation has donated $28,000 to the State College of Florida Foundation to build acoustically correct music practice studios in the future $3.8 million Studio for the Performing Arts at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF). The $28,000 donation will receive an equal match, making the donation a $56,000 gift.
The practice studios, which allow for one-on-one tutoring as well as individual practice time, are essential for students to meet their coursework requirements. Plans for the new building include a total of 10 practice studios. The 15,000-square-foot building at SCF Bradenton will support the growth of music, art and theatre programs in Sarasota and Manatee counties. It also will provide an outreach to all populations, including those with limited access to such amenities, meeting a critical need for SCF and the community.
The Huisking Foundation supports arts and culture, education, the environment, animal protection, hospitals, health and human services and religious purposes. The Foundation was established to perpetuate and preserve the memory of the late lieutenant. Frank R. Huisking, who served as co-captain of a B-24 bomber during World War II and was lost, along with his crew, when the bomber went down over Italy in 1944.
The building where music students currently practice is more than 50 years old and was originally designed for classrooms only, offers minimal functionality and has poor acoustics. In 2010 the Department of Education performed a facilities study, and based on the results, determined it was not suitable for college music program needs. The college received state approval for replacement, but without funding.
Any contribution of $10,000 or more to the Studio for the Performing Arts will be matched. To donate or for more information, contact Barbara Bourgoin, development director, at BourgoB@SCF.edu or 941-752-5398.
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