| University of Florida Foundation, Inc. | |
| Christopher Brazda | 352-392-1633 |
| Public Relations | 100 NW 20th St |
| cbrazda@uff.ufl.edu | Gainesville, FL 32603 |
| For immediate release | Wednesday, October 11, 2006 |
APPRECIATION OF WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT LEADS TO GIFT TO UF PERFORMING ARTS
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Deborah Butler |
GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Deborah Butler understands the importance of having national and international performing arts brought to her hometown. Deborah, together with her father Clark, recently showed their appreciation to University of Florida Performing Arts (UFPA) by giving $100,000 to the program.
“University of Florida Performing Arts is a local treasure that we cannot take for granted,” said Deborah Butler, vice president of Butler Enterprises. “Not having to travel to New York and beyond to be exposed to world-class entertainment is a great service and value to the North Central Florida community.”
The gift was given in the name of Deborah’s mother, Mary Catherine, who enjoys bringing her friends to performances at the Phillips Center and sitting in the box named for her.
“The support demonstrated for the performing arts by all of the Butlers is phenomenal,” said Michael Blachly, UFPA director and associate dean for resources and services in UF College of Fine Arts. “Deborah has been a valued member of our audience and supporter since the Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts opened in 1992. Her continued involvement with our program speaks volumes about the significance that the performing arts has for our business, civic and philanthropic communities.”
Deborah Butler is an active member of the UFPA advisory board of directors. In addition to financial support, Deborah gives her time and talent, and has opened her home to host many UFPA events and meetings.
She has been on the board since 1996, and served as president 2004 – 2006. Deborah chaired the Black and White Ball fundraising committee and was on the host committee for the British Invasion and Motown fundraisers. Butler Plaza Miracle Mile was also a Platinum Sponsor for the cultural plaza endowment fundraiser, Party on the Plaza, and a performance sponsor for many seasons.
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