Laura R. Grafman Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer Endowed Position to be Established at The Phoenix Symphony

Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust awards $1 million gift dedicated to the memory of one of the Trust’s founding Trustees, Laura Grafman.

The Phoenix Symphony today announced a $1 million gift from Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust, establishing the Laura R. Grafman Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer position. This vital role is dedicated to the memory and extraordinary legacy of Laura Grafman, a beloved community leader and founding Trustee of Piper Trust.

A cherished friend of Virginia Galvin Piper, Laura Grafman was appointed as one of the four founding Trustees of Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust in 1999, describing it as "the greatest privilege I could have ever received." Her dedication to the community and her role in stewarding the Trust’s philanthropic mission have left an indelible mark on the Valley.

The Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer position, currently held with distinction by Tammy Rocker, is vital to the Symphony’s mission. The endowment of this position, as the Symphony embarks on its groundbreaking Crescendo campaign, will help the organization to move ahead with confidence and conviction toward a bright and enduring future. The establishment of the Laura R. Grafman Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer position underscores the Symphony’s commitment to honoring Laura’s legacy while ensuring the success of its advancement initiatives.

Peter Kjome, President and CEO of the Symphony, spoke about Laura Grafman and her legacy. "Those who had the privilege of knowing Laura remember her remarkable achievements and her warmth, kindness, and belief in the power of generosity," said Kjome. "We greatly miss Laura, who was a trusted mentor and a dear friend. This extraordinary gift from Piper Trust honors her memory and empowers the Symphony to fulfill our mission today and for future generations."

"Laura Grafman was an accomplished and beloved philanthropic leader in our community—she led with her heart always striving to ensure that lives would be impacted,” said Piper Trust founding Trustee Jim Bruner. "Laura embodied the mission and values of Piper Trust in our shared work as stewards of Virginia Piper’s extraordinary legacy."

Paul Critchfield, Piper Trust founding Trustee, spoke about the significance of Laura Grafman’s life and work. "Laura exemplified governance, responsibility, and loyalty," said Critchfield. "She played a central role watching over what Paul Galvin began and Virginia continued to do so admirably and well. Laura never lost sight of the Trustees’ promise to Virginia to be careful, creative, and compassionate stewards of her legacy."

"Laura taught me what it means to be a fundraiser," said Steve Zabilski, President and CEO of Piper Trust. "She wanted the best for our community and only asked in return that we always give our best. This new position helps continue Laura Grafman’s legacy, which is underscored by generosity, gratitude, and grace."

Mo Stein, Chair of the Phoenix Symphony Board of Directors, said, "We are deeply moved by this generous gift from Piper Trust. It is a fitting tribute to Laura’s life and work, and it ensures that the Symphony will continue to thrive for many years to come. We are proud to honor her memory and are grateful to the Trust for its continued support of the Symphony."

"Laura’s vision and leadership have been a guiding light for many organizations, including the Phoenix Symphony," said Mary Jane Rynd, Chair of the Phoenix Symphony Foundation Board. "This endowed position will ensure that her legacy continues to inspire and support the Symphony’s mission for generations to come."

Tammy Rocker spoke about the new role. "It is an honor to be the first person to serve in this role named in memory of Laura Grafman," said Rocker. "Laura’s dedication to the Phoenix community and her profound impact on the arts and philanthropy continue to inspire me. We are deeply grateful to Piper Trust for this gift, which not only supports the Symphony’s ongoing advancement efforts but also ensures that Laura’s legacy will live on in the work we do to serve our community."

Laura’s passion for music was shared with her beloved husband, Dayton Fowler Grafman, who was a distinguished Steinway concert pianist, dedicated champion of the performing arts and past Board Chair of The Phoenix Symphony. The Phoenix Symphony extends its heartfelt appreciation to Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust for this extraordinary commitment that will have a lasting impact on the Symphony and the community it serves.

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About The Phoenix Symphony

The Phoenix Symphony is Arizona’s largest performing arts organization and one of the state’s most important cultural assets. In addition to performing traditional and modern repertoire in Symphony Hall and around the Valley, its world-class musicians are actively engaged in the community thanks to generous foundation, corporation, and individual support. The Symphony is strengthened by collaborating with renowned guest conductors and artists. The core mission of The Phoenix Symphony is to provide extraordinary musical experiences that inspire and advance our community, enriching the lives of people of all ages and backgrounds. Annually, orchestra members empower more than 100,000 students through education and partnerships and create opportunities for deeper connection for tens of thousands of adults experiencing homelessness, in Alzheimer’s care facilities, in hospitals and in hospice. Overall, Phoenix Symphony musicians traveled more than 14,000 miles across Arizona in 2023 to volunteer in Community Engagement and Education activities. To learn more, please visit phoenixsymphony.org.