With a gift of $5 million, University of Michigan alumna Eileen Weiser and her husband, Richard “Dick” Caldarazzo, have established the Weiser Caldarazzo Iconic Artists Endowment Fund at the University Musical Society.
It represents the largest gift UMS has ever received since its founding in 1879.
The fund will support two performances by significant artists or ensembles recognized as icons in today’s vibrant performing arts scene.
Weiser holds piano performance degrees from Michigan State University and U-M.
“The performing arts are precious to both of us for the haven they provide from everyday life,” Weiser said. “We treasure how the arts challenge us, make us laugh or cry, provoke new thoughts and ideas while lifting up our emotions.
“They are essential to creating tolerance, strengthening our humanity, and helping people find balance in our increasingly complex world.”
Weiser serves on U-M boards including the Marsal Family School of Education Dean’s Advisory Council and the UMS Campaign Council.
She has supported UMS over the years, most recently serving as a title sponsor in helping to fund the presentation of “Itzhak Perlman & Friends” in December 2023 and Emanuel Ax, Leonidas Kavakos, and Yo-Yo Ma in January.
Hailing from Chicago, Caldarazzo played offensive guard for U-M in the 1970 Rose Bowl under legendary coach Bo Schembechler.
“The University Musical Society has provided amazing performance opportunities for 146 years, Caldarazzo said. “We are grateful that we can help ensure that tradition of excellence for the future, both for the performers they nurture and the joy they bring to our community.”
This is the first gift that Weiser and Caldarazzo are making together.
“As all of us at UMS look forward to our 150th season in 2028-29, and all the exciting things we are planning, it is incredibly gratifying to have this extraordinary commitment from Eileen Weiser and Dick Caldarazzo — two fervent believers in the arts and culture, UMS and the University of Michigan,” said UMS President Matthew VanBesien.
“Their support helps ensure we can always invite the world’s most iconic and important artists and ensembles to perform on our stages and for the benefit of our students and the broader community.”
