Students Say Thank You
Making an Impact
Whatever paths our students pursue, their lives are forever changed by their time at Interlochen.
Your gift opens young artists' eyes to new possibilities. Whether they spend two weeks on campus as a junior camper, or four years as an Academy student, their Interlochen experience fosters their sense of confidence and connects them to their purpose.
Their words of gratitude reflect the impact of this transformative institution, and the power of philanthropy in realizing students' potential.
Thank you for helping today’s young artists become tomorrow’s changemakers.
"I'm so grateful donors have made a place like Interlochen possible.
"After writing my first song at 7 years old, I knew pursuing music was my dream, but it always seemed out of reach. That changed because of my time at Camp and Academy. Through touring, concerts, and collaboration, Interlochen opened my eyes to the world of commercial music and allowed me to make professional connections early on in my career. I graduated with the confidence to believe in myself as a songwriter and aspiring music executive because of Interlochen's world-class approach to music education."
—Karissa Bone (IAC 16-17, IAA 18) Singer-Songwriter
"There is a direct line from donors’ generosity to me as a young Black man now dancing in a professional ballet company.
"I’m shattering glass ceilings and taking strides in places where others were never offered room. I’m helping ballet live into the future and make very needed progress. If you’re in a place to make a gift for a young artist’s learning and education, you’re giving them a gateway to a bigger world. It’s not an exaggeration to say that going to Interlochen is the reason I’ve been able to fulfill my dream of dancing professionally. And I couldn’t have gone without my scholarship."
—Austin Dabney (IAA 15-19) Dance
"I’m thankful for all the support and love that I received at Interlochen.
"This place gave me the room to grow, succeed, and be part of a family."
—Angelica Bohanan (IAA 15-19) Visual Arts
"I am having a surreal experience at Interlochen Arts Academy and I could not thank you enough for your contribution to my experience.
"I never thought I'd get to do what I love every day...as part of my school curriculum! The faculty at Interlochen are some of the most knowledgeable people I have ever been graced to work with."
—Patrick Rutkowski (IAC 15-16, IAA 16-18) Musical Theatre
"You handed me the key to an experience that impacted me more than you will ever know.
"I can never repay you for such an amazing opportunity, but I promise to make you proud of me and what I will do thanks to your gift."
Adrian Jackson, Jr. (IAC 17, IAA 18) Music
83%
of 2023/2024 Academy students received financial aid
110
student performances were costumed, scored, and filmed thanks to donors
50%
of 2024 Camp students received financial aid