Honourary Life Member Awards

The Board of the Victoria Symphony is proud to present the Honourary Life Member Award to five highly deserving individuals for their extraordinary leadership, volunteerism, and financial support. They have all held positions on the Symphony Board, have passionately contributed to the success to the Symphony’s mission and vision and are long term generous donors. Without their tireless, unwavering and meaningful support, the Symphony would not be where it is today!

Brian Butler

Brian has exhibited extraordinary leadership, support and philanthropy of the Victoria Symphony through two terms as VS Board President, many years as a Board Director, and 30 years as a generous sponsor through Butler Brothers Supplies which is a proud sponsor of the Classics series and the Handel’s Messiah concert. Brian is also a Director of the Foundation for the Victoria Symphony and has been a staunch supporter of the Symphony in business and government circles. Brian and Anne Butler are currently Benefactors in our Conductor’s Circle.

Marsha Hanen

Marsha has served as VS Board President, was a Board Director for many years and is a Director of the Foundation for the Victoria Symphony Board. Since 2006, Marsha has used her never ending energy to contribute to Board committees and projects. Her most recent accomplishment was to serve as Chair of the New Music Director Search Committee. Marsha’s leadership, expertise and dedication led to the Board appointment of Maestro Christian Kluxen as VS Music Director.

Sadly, Marsha passed away in 2019.

Sandra Lackenbauer

Sandra served on the Victoria Symphony Board of Directors for five years, during which her expertise enhanced board governance and strategic planning. Sandra was a very active Co-Chair of the recent successful Artistic Excellence Campaign that raised over $3 million for the Foundation for the Victoria Symphony. Sandra volunteers much of her time advocating for the Symphony in the community and is a positive force that continuously uplifts the Symphony and its musicians. She is a Benefactor in our Conductor’s Circle and underwrites our Music Director Christian Kluxen as well as many musicians, guest artists and concerts.

John McEown

John has been a dedicated supporter of the Victoria Symphony for decades. During his six years of VS Board service, including as Vice-President, John contributed to the launch of the hugely popular Victoria Symphony Splash. John has been an active and passionate contributor to the success and growth of the Victoria Symphony and the Foundation for the Victoria Symphony. Currently, John and Marvie McEown are Benefactors in our Conductor’s Circle.

Harry Swain

Harry’s exemplary leadership and tireless efforts have significantly contributed to the success that the Symphony enjoys today. Harry led the organization as VS Board President and also as President of the Foundation for the Victoria Symphony. Harry was instrumental in many significant and positive changes for both the Foundation and for the Society. Recently Harry was a Co-Chair of the Artistic Excellence Campaign, which raised over $3 million for the Foundation. Harry and Julie Swain are Benefactors in our Conductor’s Circle and underwrite many musicians, guest artists, concerts and our Composer in Residence.