Why We Give: Western & Southern Financial Group and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc.
by Mya Gibson
A city’s culture is its legacy, and, for decades, Western & Southern Financial Group and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. have played a vital role in ensuring that Cincinnati’s musical traditions continue to thrive.
For Tracey Stofa, managing director and head of the Private Client Group for Fort Washington, supporting the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra isn’t just business, it’s personal.
“I actually didn’t grow up with the arts,” Stofa admits. “My schedule was packed with academics and athletics, so there wasn’t much room for music or theater. But in my late 20s, I won symphony tickets in a raffle, and that first concert completely changed my perspective.”
That experience sparked a love for the arts that has only grown over time. Now, through her work at Fort Washington and her involvement in organizations like ArtsWave, Stofa is passionate about making sure others in the community have similar opportunities to discover and enjoy the arts.
The same is true for John Barrett, chairman, president and CEO of Western & Southern, whose love for the symphony orchestra started in early elementary school when he attended an orchestra performance of Maurice Ravel’s Boléro, which he found incredibly moving — he has been hooked ever since.
Stofa says, “Whether it’s a grand orchestra performance or a fun Pops concert, music has a way of uniting people from all walks of life. The CSO is the backbone of our great arts community, and we’re proud to support an organization that creates such memorable experiences.”
So, why do Western & Southern and Fort Washington give? The answer is simple: our city is a better place when its cultural institutions thrive. The CSO, with its rich heritage and commitment to musical experiences, embodies the vibrant spirit of the city.
“We’re committed to making Cincinnati the best place to live, work and celebrate life,” Stofa notes. “By supporting the Orchestra, Western & Southern and Fort Washington affirm that the arts are an essential ingredient in building a community that is innovative, thriving and connected.”
Western & Southern and Fort Washington have long recognized that investing in the arts creates a ripple effect throughout the community. Employees regularly attend performances, host clients at concerts and take pride in being part of an organization that helps keep the arts alive. Their contributions help ensure that the CSO can attract and retain the world’s best musicians, conductors and artistic talent. This level of artistic excellence not only enhances the performances themselves but also fuels the Orchestra’s broad educational initiatives and free community concerts.
For Barrett, philanthropic giving hits a bit closer to home. His mother and father were huge supporters of the CSO and the arts in Cincinnati. He strives to carry on their tradition and is proud to follow in their footsteps.
Stofa remarks, “We invest in organizations that put people first and preserve the city’s traditions to advance the common good. These traditions bring us all together for shared experiences and community connections.”
As Cincinnati continues to grow, so does its artistic legacy, and, thanks to dedicated partners like Western & Southern and Fort Washington, the CSO will play on for generations to come.