THE ANNUAL FUND Essential Support, Everywhere You Look
Look almost anywhere on campus, and you’ll likely see something supported through Interlochen’s Annual Fund. The vital underpinning of the student experience, it sustains daily operations and everything from student scholarships to visiting artists and from performance tours to faculty development.
not only because of its far-reaching impact but also its accessibility, with gift options for every level of donor capacity. That’s why we count so many among our Annual Fund donors. In almost every corner of the Interlochen community, you’ll find someone supporting Interlochen artistry through the Annual Fund. And when more donors participate, more young artists benefit.
Philanthropy fuels artistry through the Annual Fund,
“Interlochen helped me to become successful by my own definition,” says alumna, philanthropyvolunteer, and leadership Annual Fund donor Tracy Mae (LeClair) Strong (IAA 89-92). Hers has been a rich, multifaceted career, animated by the academic and artistic enrichment she found at Interlochen. Ballet was Tracy’s first passion and profession: from Academy, where she majored in dance, to further dance studies at the University of Utah and three years with Ballet Idaho/Eugene Ballet (Oregon). Then, she pivoted to a new professional adventure: the law. “Interlochen’s strong academic foundation and artistic discipline was great preparation” for work as a lawyer, she says, adding, “a place where I was immersed in learning with inspiring teachers and peers fueled my drive and curiosity” and “helped me learn how to fail constructively.”
Now, Tracy and husband Jim see the same benefits upon their children, both alumni: Avery (IAC 23, IAA 23-26) and Carter (IAC 21). They’ve been eager to give back. Why give? Much has changed since 1989, but the “educational opportunities” within Interlochen “have held constant,” Tracy says. “I want every young artist... to have the chance to focus on their personal development and to be a part of this community that hums with creative energy. Providing that requires us—you and me—to join in and help.”
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2026 ANNUAL REPORT OF GIFTS
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