Brink/Shih Fund for the Quincy Public Schools' Friends of the Performing Arts

This fund creates an instrument for others to support performing arts in the public schools.

In this case, a patron and a nonprofit organization teamed up to establish the Brink/Shih Fund for the Quincy Public Schools Friends of the Performing Arts - named for Julie A. Brink and the late Dr. Michael S. Shih.

Brink, a Quincy Senior High School alumna, was active in the junior high choral program and the QHS Concert and Show Choirs.

“My participation in the music program played an important role in my overall academic experience,” Brink said. “I wanted to create an instrument so that other alumni, students, and supporters of the performing arts could participate in the long-term future of the program. I believe this program and the faculty play an important role in shaping the lives of young people.”

Dr. Shih’s devotion to his children and unyielding support for their academic and artistic endeavors was an inspiration to many teachers, according to Kathi Dooley, former Director of Music Education and Fine Arts for the Quincy Public Schools.

“He was committed to the pursuit of excellence for all children,” said Dooley. “He deeply believed in the values and skills learned through participation in the arts and extracurricular activities, thus helping all students develop lifelong skills leading to full and productive lives.”

The Friends of the Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization that exists to promote and encourage the complete music and performing arts program of the Quincy Public Schools.

As this fund grows and others add their donations, the Friends of the Performing Arts and Julie are assured that future generations will have opportunities to participate in the performing arts.

To learn more about Friends of the Performing Arts, visit its website: www.qps.org/music.