The University of Kentucky College of Fine Arts has announced a $6.6 million deferred gift from Ben C. Kaufmann and his wife, Janet Zusman, in support of the School of Music.

The largest pledge in the history of the UK College of Fine Arts will establish the Ben C. Kaufmann and Janet Zusman Music Fund in the School of Music. Made to celebrate and honor the work of UK Opera Theatre director Everett McCorvey, UK Symphony Orchestra director John Nardolillo, and UK Choir director Jefferson Johnson, the gift will provide support for recruiting and retaining top-ranked faculty, performances, outreach initiatives, and programming for each department.

Kaufmann, who grew up in Lexington, was introduced to classical music when he and his father attended concerts on the UK campus. Longtime supporters of UK, the couple have now pledged nearly $7 million to the university.

"We want our gift to spotlight the importance of the College of Fine Arts and the School of Music in our community. I want to inspire others to join us as benefactors," said Kaufmann. "As a member of the College of Fine Arts Kentucky Can campaign committee, it's gratifying to be part of the collective leadership to move the mission forward and reach our Kentucky Can goal." 

"When the artistry of our opera, choral, and symphony students aligns with the passion of a member of our audience, great things can happen," said Mark Shanda, dean of the UK College of Fine Arts. "The music fund, established with a gift of more than $6.6 million dollars, provides critical support so that music performance and audience enjoyment can be linked for generations to come. Their belief in our teaching, creative activity, and service mission; their trust in our outstanding faculty cohort, McCorvey, Johnson and Nardolillo; and their affirmation of the impact we have on our students and the Lexington community; greatly affirm the arts' essential role to the lives of individuals and the community. We are forever grateful for their philanthropic leadership."