Diamond Performing Arts Center Dedication

BY DEBBIE MARCHIONE

On April 22, 2022, the Diamond Performing Arts Center in the Upper School was officially dedicated and named in honor of the Diamond family. Sue Diamond is a long-time trustee of The Bear Creek School, and her late husband Kent was a beloved golf coach and volunteer. The family has a long tradition of involvement and philanthropy at Bear Creek. Sue’s gift to name the space reflects her commitment to the arts, especially music, but, more importantly, it reflects her commitment to students, encouraging them to explore their God-given gifts so they might bring honor and glory to Him. Sue and her children Karin’13 and Colin ’15, and Karin’s fiancé (now husband) Ethan Frederic, along with family, friends, fellow Trustees, and members of Bear Creek’s President’s Circle celebrated the naming with a special dedication ceremony followed by a concert by renowned Hawaiian slack-key guitarist Jeff Peterson. In keeping with Sue’s care for students, Bear Creek’s Upper School band students had the opportunity earlier in the week to learn from and perform with Mr. Peterson as well. The musician graciously performed a song with the Upper School Jazz Band at their Spring Concert and participated in a lunchtime miniconcert and Q&A session for all interested students. Bear Creek is deeply grateful to Sue Diamond for her

Ethan Frederic, Karin Diamond, Sue Diamond, and Colin Diamond

Jeff Peterson with Upper School students in the Nagel Commons

dedication and her very generous philanthropic investments to benefit students and advance the school’s arts program and mission.