WSO Recognizes William & Shirley Loewen

October 9, 2008 - The position of Director Emeritus of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra was created to honour those who have demonstrated long-term involvement with the organization at an extraordinary level. On Saturday, September 27, 2008, WSO Board President, Dorothy Dobbie officially recognized two outstanding supporters with this honour prior to the start of the season opening concert. William and Shirley Loewen have provided leadership, expertise, direction and financial support to the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra for more than 20 years. Shirley has been an active member of the Women's Committee and a participant and leader in many special events and programs over the years. William Loewen has served the organization on committees and as a board member and president of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. In 1998, William Loewen was the recipient of the WSO’Äôs Golden Baton Award for his exceptional contribution to the WSO, but also to the arts community in Winnipeg and across Canada. Over the years, the WSO has benefited from his time, wisdom and significant philanthropy. Together William and Shirley Loewen, and the W.H. & S.E. Loewen Foundation, have also provided generous financial support to the WSO over many years. Through their foundation, numerous works were commissioned for the New Music Festival and their company TelPay was the title sponsor for the 2007 New Music Festival. The WSO recognizes and thanks Mr. and Mrs. Loewen for close to four decades of generous support and encouragement.