At The Presser Foundation’s June Annual Board Meeting, the Trustees, Committee Members, and staff of the Foundation shared a resolution honoring Dr. Jeffrey Cornelius’ leadership and service to the Foundation as a Trustee since 2003 and as Board President since 2017.
Read the resolution below to learn about the impact of Dr. Cornelius on the Foundation.
Dr. Jeffrey Cornelius
Whereas, Jeffrey Cornelius:
Has served The Board of Trustees of The Presser Foundation as board member, committee chair, officer, and as President from July 2003 through June 2023;
Whereas, since 2017 he has presided over an historic administrative and strategic transformation of this institution. He has always kept in mind the wishes of the Foundation’s founder, Theodore Presser, yet recognized the necessity of adopting his vision to contemporary needs and realities;
Whereas, during his tenure as President, the assets of the Foundation peaked enabling the Foundation to grant over $21 million to organizations and individuals;
Whereas, he has left his hallmark of excellence specifically related to the operations of the Foundation with specialized and expanded staff to elevate the reach and status of the Foundation in the philanthropic community both locally and nationally; and
Whereas, his most lasting contribution to the legacy of The Presser Foundation has been his work to center equity in all areas of the Foundation’s activities. His leadership led to the establishment of a new standing DEI Committee.
Therefore, be it resolved that The Presser Foundation Board of Trustees honors and salutes Jeffrey Cornelius
- For his lifelong dedication to the art of music and service to the larger community of musicians and scholars;
- For his many accomplishments and distinguished career as a musical educator and performing artist. Serving as the dean of the Boyer College of Music and Dance, designated as a professor emeritus, excelling as the conductor of the Temple University Singers, and maintaining close associations with Mendelssohn Chorus of Philadelphia and Westminster Choir College among other notable music organizations;
- Above all, for his fidelity, empathy, and optimistic outlook as President, inspiring all to achieve their very best efforts and setting a high standard for the future; and
Expresses sincere thanks and appreciation to him for his distinguished service on the occasion of his retirement.
