May 3, 2016
Tom and Lucy Ott have long had a passion for music therapy, which is why they use their donor advised fund at the Community Foundation to support the music therapy program at Montclair State University’s John J.Cali School of Music.
Founded in 1969 and among the country’s most distinguished programs of its kind, Montclair’s music therapy program has continued to flourish and serve countless students and clients thanks to the Ott’s generous support.
At a recent performance celebrating the program’s 45th anniversary, the music therapy students asked to take a picture with the Otts, which caught Tom and Lucy by surprise.
“We were very touched by their interest in a couple of old fogies,” quipped Tom. “At our advanced years, we now have our very own groupies.”
Working through music to promote mental and physical health, music therapists from Montclair’s program work with individuals across a wide range of ages and needs. According to Montclair, the program, “features closely supervised clinical work each semester at highly reputable New Jersey facilities as well as schools, nursing homes and hospitals in New York City.”
We at the Community Foundation congratulate Tom and Lucy Ott on achieving this philanthropic impact and for measurably improving the field of music therapy in New Jersey. We look forward to supporting their continued good works.
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