President
Elizabeth Raol
Mission Statement
The Spokane Symphony Associates organization believes that having a symphony orchestra in Spokane enhances the quality of life in the community.
The Spokane Symphony Associates organization also believes that a volunteer organization is necessary to ensure the growth and vitality of a symphony orchestra. To this end, the Spokane Symphony Associates organization exists to provide, through its own activities, financial and volunteer support for the Symphony.
In addition, the organization provides educational and involvement opportunities for the community. The Spokane Symphony Associates organization is unique in these services.
Our vision is a thriving symphony for Spokane to enjoy for generations.
Brief History
Spokane Symphony Associates (SSA), is a 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer organization that has been working in support of the Spokane Symphony Orchestra since 1963. What began as a small group of dedicated women, the “Spokane Symphony Women’s Association” was renamed “Spokane Symphony Associates” in April, 1982.
In October, 1998 the Spokane Symphony Associates became incorporated by the State of Washington.
Our organization is composed primarily of Chapters, which promote camaraderie and facilitate communication. Chapters, as well as our unaffiliated members, contribute significantly and in various capacities to all of our fundraising events.
To continue to achieve our goals, we are always seeking to expand our membership and to incorporate fresh ideas.
Board of Directors
President Elect
Doug Belanger
President Advisor
Janet Lambarth
Secretary
Carolyn Gallon
Treasurer
Betsy Johnson
VP of Development
Steve Corker
VP Education
Martha Harvie
VP Finance
Allison Sharp
VP Membership
Bruce Colquhoun
VP Promotion & PR
Sandy Colquhoun
VP Service & Social
Kris Lamberson
Nominating Committee
Chair
Bruce Colquhoun
Committee Members
Bruce Colquhoun, Doug Belanger, Betsy Johnson, Janet Lambarth, Elizabeth Raol
Underwriting Committee
Chair
Committee Members
Sue Kennedy
Event Chairs
Christmas Tree Elegance
Event Chair
Lori LaFrance
Event Co-Chair
Marjorie H. Bender
Upscale Sale
Jeanette Brenner - Chair
Service Awards
Each year during the spring annual meeting, several SSA members are recognized for their outstanding achievements and or dedication to service during the previous year.
2023 Eleanor Delaney Award winner is Sandy Colquhoun
SSA Member who has made significant contributions in several areas for an extended period of time.
2023 Sherry Knott Patron of the Arts Award winner is Elizabeth Raol
SSA member who has contributed significantly to a variety of arts in Spokane and surrounding areas over an extended period of time.
2023 Katherine Gellhorn Outstanding Service Award winner is Peggy Springer
An SSA member who has made a significant contribution. This may be in one specific area.
2023 Myrna Massie Professional Award winner is Jeanette Brenner
An SSA member who has contributed significantly to the organization while also having a commitment in the business world.
2023 Associates Award winners are Maggie Sullivan, Anita Lewis & Bob Shaw
An SSA member who is relatively new to the organization, but who has contributed significantly.
2023 President’s Award winner is Delia Thurber
Presented at the discretion of the President to an SSA member for exceptional service to the organization.
League of American Orchestras
Volunteer Council of the League of American Orchestras leads, advocates, and champions volunteer organizations in their efforts to support their orchestras, community outreach, and civic partnerships to advance the experience of orchestral music.
Currently, it is being represented by 19 volunteer associations nationwide.
Spokane Symphony Associates members who are serving or have served as a Volunteer Council representative are:
Bruce Colquhoun: 2018 to Current, 2023 Conference Chair
Peggy Springer: 2000 to 2006 as Conference Chair and 2007 to 2008 as Sustainer Liaison
Sue Kennedy: 1992 to 1995
League of American Orchestras Awards
The Spokane Symphony Associates has been recognized numerous times by the League of American Orchestras. The League, which is comprised of over 800 orchestras across the country, is a nexus of knowledge and innovation, advocacy, and leadership advancement for managers, musicians, volunteers, and boards.
2022-23
Spotlight “Award of Excellence” for:
“Upscale Sale”
2017 – 2018
Gold Book “Award of Excellence” for:
“Music Bingo”
2015 – 2016
Roundtable Classic Award winning project: “Christmas Tree Elegance”
Roundtable Award for:
“Bulletin Board”
2013 – 2014
Roundtable Award for:
“Bloom in Tune”
2012 – 2013
Gold Baton Award for: 50 years of strengthening orchestras by championing the invaluable work of America’s orchestra volunteers
2009 – 2010
Gold Award of Excellence for:
“It’s in the Bag”
2005 – 2006
Silver Award for Fund-Raising:
“Let’s Play for the Symphony”
2004 – 2005
Silver Ribbon Award for the highly creative and successful service project: “Gift Bags for Guest Artists”
2003 – 2004
Gold Ribbon Award: for “Fund-Raising”
For the highly creative and successful fund-raising project: “Christmas Tree Elegance”
1999 – 2000
Swing with the Maestro
1998 – 1999
Recognized for Symfunnies