In a breathtaking setting along Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal Waterway, the Broward Performing Arts Foundation recently feted its esteemed Founders’ Club members. This exclusive gathering, held aboard the newly inaugurated venue The Shorely in Marina Village at Bahia Mar, was an evening of elegance and gratitude. Hosted by long-time supporters Kenny and Sandy Tate, alongside Bahia Mar, guests enjoyed an array of cocktails and appetizers while basking in the golden hues of a perfect Florida evening. The event celebrated the significant contributions of the Founders’ Club, which plays a crucial role in supporting educational programs that benefit thousands of students annually.

An Evening of Gratitude and Reflection on the Intracoastal

On a radiant autumn evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with shades of orange and pink, a select group of philanthropists gathered aboard The Shorely, a luxurious yacht nestled in Marina Village at Bahia Mar. The private reception was organized to honor the members of the Robert B. Lochrie Jr. Founders’ Club, named after the founding chairman of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. With over 150 benefactors who have collectively donated $100,000 or more, this club stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to the arts.

The evening was marked by heartfelt speeches from Lisa Kitei, President of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, and Ty Sutton, CEO of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Both leaders emphasized the profound impact of the Foundation’s educational initiatives, which reach over 100,000 students each year. Kitei expressed her gratitude to Kenny and Sandy Tate for their generous hospitality, while Sutton highlighted the national recognition of the Center’s arts-in-education program—the largest of its kind in the country.

The Broward Performing Arts Foundation has been instrumental in shaping the cultural landscape of Fort Lauderdale for nearly four decades. Established in 1985, it has raised millions to support the Broward Center’s diverse programming, including the recent $30 million renovation of the iconic Parker Playhouse. Through its efforts, the Foundation continues to ensure that the arts remain accessible and impactful for generations to come.

From the decks of The Shorely, guests not only celebrated past achievements but also looked forward to the future, inspired by the enduring legacy of the Founders’ Club and the transformative power of the arts in education.

As a journalist covering this event, it is clear that the generosity of these benefactors goes beyond financial support. Their commitment to nurturing young minds through the arts will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint on the community. The evening served as a reminder of the critical role that private philanthropy plays in preserving and advancing cultural institutions, ensuring that they continue to thrive and inspire future generations.