With a major gift from the estate of June Jane Ripley McVey the Carnegie Arts Center Board of Directors announced the naming of the center’s popular performing arts space, the June & John McVey Loft. The naming will be marked with a dedication ceremony at 6 p.m. Sept. 17, followed by a special dance-themed free Family Friday event at 7 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
The McVey Loft will continue to be a lively place for theatrical productions, concerts, dance classes, lectures, and films. As one of the Carnegie’s premier rental spaces, the McVey Loft will host many special events throughout the year.
June Jane Ripley McVey was a beloved performer, teacher, and friend to the arts throughout her life. Her early career as a dancer with the USO brought joy to sailors and soldiers up and down California. The dance studio she ran for more than 40 years touched the lives of many students, young and old, building life-long friendships. Along with her husband John’s long career as a teacher of art and design at Turlock High School, the couple’s commitment to the arts and to the community of Turlock is unmatched.
“We can’t think of a better way to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the CAC and ensure the enduring legacy of June and John McVey than to name this performing arts space in their honor,” said Jeani Ferrari, Carnegie Arts Center Foundation president.
Funds from the gift will be placed in the Carnegie Arts Center Foundation’s Endowment Fund, a permanently restricted fund that provides annual operating support for the CAC’s many activities.
“Ten years ago, when the new Carnegie Arts Center was under construction, the Board of Directors established the Endowment Fund. With the 2011 Capital Campaign, major gifts secured naming rights to almost every room in the new building, and more than 130 families and businesses pledged endowment gifts in our first two years. New donors made gifts in 2016-17 as we celebrated the Centennial of the Carnegie Library, and now the Fund principal is over $2 million,” explained Lisa McDermott, CAC Director.
“This generous gift will make a significant contribution to the growth of our Endowment Fund. As we experienced loss of revenue and cancellation of exhibits and events during the pandemic, the Fund provided crucial support that will ensure our future success.” McDermott continued. “As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the CAC, it is clear that the Endowment has proven to be a great gift to this community.”
For more information on the CAC’s 10th Anniversary including exhibitions, special events and a new Endowment fundraising campaign, visit the CAC website: carnegieartsturlock.org
The Carnegie Arts Center is located at 250 N. Broadway in Downtown Turlock.
