The Van Wezel Foundation received a generous $1-million gift from local philanthropist and longtime Van Wezel Foundation supporter Phil Steyaert. Steyaert’s $1-million gift was inspired in response to the board’s $20-million commitment, which was announced in January at the Foundation’s annual Inspiration Gala. After relocating to Sarasota in 2005, Steyaert was immediately drawn to the performing arts at the Hall. As a former musician, he has been committed to sharing the arts by donating to the Foundation annually to advance its mission of creating and sustaining a vibrant performing arts center, advancing education, and enriching communities by inspiring minds through the power of the arts. Steyaert has witnessed the growth within the community first-hand, citing the need for a new performing arts center to accommodate the evolution and progress of the area. For more information about the Sarasota Performing Arts Center, visit vwfoundation.org/SPAC.