Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust awards $1 million gift dedicated to the memory of one of the Trust’s founding Trustees, Laura Grafman
PHOENIX (May 20, 2025) – 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 one of Arizona’s largest performing arts organizations and is a vital cultural asset for the state. In addition to showcasing traditional and contemporary works at Symphony Hall and across the Valley, the Symphony’s world-class musicians actively engage with the community, supported by generous contributions from foundations, corporations, and individuals. The Symphony thrives through collaborations with acclaimed guest conductors and artists. Its core mission is to provide extraordinary musical experiences that inspire and uplift our community, enriching the lives of people of all ages and backgrounds. Each year, the orchestra reaches over 100,000 students through educational initiatives and partnerships and creates meaningful connections for tens of thousands of adults, including those experiencing homelessness, living in Alzheimer’s care facilities, and receiving treatment in hospitals and hospice care. In 2023 alone, Phoenix Symphony musicians traveled over 14,000 miles throughout Arizona, volunteering in Community Engagement and Education efforts.
To learn more, please visit phoenixsymphony.org.
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