Rozsa Foundation Blog: Mary Rozsa de Coquet Honoured

Rozsa Foundation President, Mary Rozsa de Coquet, was recently honoured as the 2011 Outstanding Individual Philanthropist.  Nominated by Cantos Music Foundation and presented by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Mary was recognized at a luncheon on National Philanthropy Day, Tuesday November 15, 2011 at the BMO Centre and also at a private reception with His Honour, Col, (Ret'd) the Honourable Donald S. Ethell.  In addition to her work with Cantos and the National Music Centre, Mary was recognized for her many years of work and guidance with Pioneer Camps, Calgary Arts Development Authority, ArtsVote Calgary, and the Rozsa Foundation.  She has been a champion of the arts in Calgary for many years and here at the Rozsa Foundation we are proud to call her our leader.  A video showing photos throughout Mary's career as a philanthropist was presented at the luncheon; highlighting two teenagers who participate in a Cantos music program, supported by Mary, where, as the young girl said, "We just get to come play our guitars after school - it's cool".  The significance of one person getting to experience the arts is not lost on Mary.  She told emcee Dave Kelly that her work has, and continues to be, about bringing the arts to the heart of a person whether that is one at a time or a whole audience at a time. 

Also honoured this year: Dani DeBoice, Hazel Gillespie Award Winner.  Hamilton + Partners, Outstanding Philanthropic Small Business.  Kendall Family, Outstanding Philanthropic Family.  Stephen David James McPhee, Youth Philanthropist.  Guy Mallabone, Outstanding Fundraising Professional.  James Stanford, Outstanding Lifetime Philanthropist.  Burnet, Duckworth + Palmer LLP, Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist.  Calgary Motor Dealers Association, Outstanding Philanthropic Group.  

Learn more about AFP Calgary and nominate someone for the 2012 Honours who has made a difference in Calgary with their Philanthopy.  Contact us at the Rozsa Foundation if you have questions about Philanthropy or want to get involved in our work with the arts, or another organization.  It sounds fancy, but Philanthropy means, "the love of humanity".  It's about much more than money.  It is about giving your time, your knowledge and your leadership to a cause you believe in.  We are all potential Philanthropists.

Here at the Foundation, we always knew Mary was well deserving of an award such as this.  Still, it is humbling for all of us to see her recognized in this way.  We extend our congratulations to her and thank the many others who sent their sentiments, including: Lori Gammell, Suncor, Ann Lewis, Alison Geskin and CPO, Bob McPhee and the Calgary Opera, Alberta College of Art and Design, Johann Zietsman, EPCOR CENTRE, Bruce and Maureen, Sue Van Wielingen, Kathi Sundstrom, Vicki Willis, Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, Kevin McQuillan, Dean Fine Arts, U of C.