University of Iowa Hancher Auditorium

Hancher Auditorium is the presenting organization at the University of Iowa. In 1972 Hancher will be celebrating 50 years of presenting the world’s finest artists. Over those 50 years Hancher has earned a national and international reputation. The mission of Hancher is transforming the lives of all people and building community through the arts. Hancher also takes the role of teaching and learning very seriously, enriching the educational experience of University of Iowa students and K-12th graders.

Hancher adds significantly to the quality of life in our region, and it is a destination providing a real source of recruitment and retention. Presenting the Hancher artists and carrying out a robust education program cannot be sustained through ticket sales.
No one could afford the prices that would be required to cover all the presenting costs. Also, our University leadership recently decided to eliminate the University funding that has been provided to Hancher for almost 50 years. This decision presents major challenges for Hancher.

So, fundraising is a vital part of our work. We create partnerships between Hancher and our friends who help to bring the magic to our University and region. And financial contributions are critical, but Hancher’s first core value is people first. We also appreciate the support of our volunteers too.

But of course, the financial contribution from the DeWolf family has been incredibly valuable and as we move forward it will be even more critical in support of the future of Hancher. From a major gift to the post-2008 flood rebuilding campaign to ongoing program support, the DeWolf’s have partnered with Hancher to transform lives in the Corridor. Their support makes a difference!

A $500,000 commitment to name one of the four seating sections in Hancher in 2016 was their first major impact on Hancher’s future. But those seats are only as good as the artists are who are on the Hadley Stage, and the DeWolf’s have made that aspect of Hancher’s mission a philanthropic priority as well. They’ve been generous partners in supporting the appearance of the Broadway musical “Kinky Boots,” the legendary Diana Ross, and on the coming 2021-2022 Hancher season - Straight No Chaser.

We are grateful for the DeWolf’s family’s friendship and generosity. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with them in helping to transform the lives of students and our K-12th graders. That is our future and working together we can make an impact.

Chuck Swanson
Executive Director
Hancher Auditorium
www.hancher.uiowa.edu

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