Cleveland Orch comes into Quaker millions

press release:

CLEVELAND, Ohio ― The Cleveland Orchestra has announced that it is receiving a gift of $9.3 million from the estate of Dr. Jean Hower Taber (1922-2017). This extraordinary and generous gift was outlined in Dr. Taber’s written estate plans, and revealed to the Orchestra only after her death. In addition to being a member of the Orchestra’s Heritage Society, she gave generously to the Orchestra’s annual fund every year and attended Cleveland Orchestra concerts regularly over the decades….

“Jean cherished her experiences at Cleveland Orchestra concerts at Severance Hall and Blossom Music Center over many years,” said Dr. Taber’s brother, James Hower. “The Cleveland Orchestra was a meaningful part of Jean’s life, and she felt the Orchestra was especially important to the Cleveland community – the Orchestra’s exemplary artistry and commitment to education and community resonated strongly with her.”

About Dr. Jean Hower Taber

Dr. Jean Hower Taber was the great granddaughter of John H. Hower, one of the founders of the Quaker Oats Company, originally based in Akron, Ohio. Throughout her life, Dr. Taber was known for her generosity with her time and wealth. In addition to her philanthropy, she spent much of her time volunteering at the Cleveland Natural History Museum, the Society of the Blind, and Meals on Wheels. In her youth, she was a research technician at University Hospitals, graduated from the Hathaway Brown School, received a degree from Colby Sawyer Junior College, and, in 2004, received an honorary doctorate from the University of Akron. During her lifetime, she provided the University of Akron with over $7.7 million, supported The Cleveland Orchestra, and served as a Trustee for Life with the Cleveland Natural History Museum.