Jay W. Jensen [1931 - 2007]

Respected drama teacher Jay W. Jensen leaves a bequest in the amount of $100,000 to New World School of the Arts, to establish an endowment for the "benefit of worthy students".

The generous gift will be used to create an endowment to fund the creation and maintenance of "The Jay W., John W. and Thelma S. Jensen Endowment Scholarship Fund" in honor of Jensen and his parents. Through its "scholarship" designation, Jensen's $100,000 contribution stands to be matched by the State of Florida, increasing its total potential to $200,000.

"2008 Donor Next Door" honoree Denis Edwards and NWSA Provost, Dr. Mercedes Quiroga

In a recent luncheon hosted by Leave a Legacy, NWSA Foundation Board member, Denis Edwards was honored as "THE DONOR NEXT DOOR," for his philanthropic endeavors in our community.

Actively involved in Miami arts, health and political communities for over two decades, Edwards joined the NWSA Foundation Board in 2005. His passion for the arts and for NWSA makes him an invaluable supporter who tirelessly seeks new and exciting ways to attract and enthuse others, and spread the good news about our arts conservatory.

Thank you Denis for your support and commitment. We are grateful to be one your recipients.

"2008 Shining Star Award" honoree Myrna Palley and Serving the Arts Luncheon host Ellie Rodriguez of WSVN Deco Drive

Presented by the Arts & Business Council, this year's Serving the Arts Luncheon acknowledged the dedication and commitment of two of New World School of the Arts generous supporters.

A founding member of NWSA, Myrna Palley, member of the NWSA Foundation Board, has dedicated over two decades of her life to the advancement of New World School of the Arts, and her passion in the arts and creative vision continue to be a driving force in our community. Presented with the "SHINING STAR AWARD", Palley is distinguished as a "mobilizer, a resource, and an innovator whose leadership enhances the life in Greater Miami through the arts."

Recognized for "outstanding achievement and generosity in supporting innovative initiatives," the Aetna Foundation was honored with the "YOUNG ARTIST CHAMPION AWARD." New to the NWSA family of supporters,the Aetna Foundation generously granted New World School of the Arts $30,000 to offer Miami-Dade high school students the opportunity to attend a two-week arts camp at NWSA this summer. Aetna's contribution translated into more than 50 scholarships for talented at risk youth from low income families who otherwise would not be able to afford this unique opportunity.

Floyd Green, Head of Emerging Markets, Aetna Life Insurance; Nohemi Lopez, Regional Director, Aetna Life Insurance; Dr. Mercedes Quiroga, NWSA Provost; Orlando Mendoza, VP Strategic Development, Aetna Life Insurance

Whether it's in dance, music, theater or visual arts, our alumni and students' achievements prove that an arts-infused education inspires young people to play a key role in their city's cultural and intellectual evolution.

Share this newsletter with your friends, family and colleagues and encourage them to join our growing mailing list to learn more about this renowned arts conservatory.

Help us spread the good news about the remarkable accomplishments of our students and become an advocate today for a brighter tomorrow, through New World School of the Arts.

New World School of the Arts was created by the Florida Legislature as a Center of Excellence in the visual and the performing arts. An educational partnership of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Miami Dade College and the University of Florida.