Tom Kennedy, Paul Phillips recognized as Everson Museum Lifetime Trustees

Article originally published on www.syracuse.com. Read the full article HERE.

The Board of Trustees of the Everson Museum of Art has unanimously elected Tom Kennedy and Paul Phillips as Lifetime Trustees. The highest honor that the Museum can bestow, these appointments recognize special individuals who have rendered exemplary service to the museum and contributed to its growth and success.

“In the 50-year history of the Everson, only five members have been honored with this prestigious recognition, making the selection of two Lifetime Trustees during one year particularly significant.” said Elizabeth Dunbar, Everson Director & CEO.

Tom Kennedy has served on the Everson’s Board of Trustees for multiple terms over the past four decades, including two terms as Board Chair. He is a recipient of the Everson Medal, and served as the Chair of the Everson’s 50th Anniversary Gala in 2018. Kennedy is a founding partner of Edgewater, a development and real estate company headquartered in Liverpool.

“The Everson has grown to become Central New York’s premier arts venue. The one-of-a-kind I.M Pei designed facility, a world-class ceramics collection, and accessible and educational public programs offer meaningful opportunities for everyone.” said Kennedy.

Dr. Paul Phillips began as a trustee at the Everson Museum of Art in 1998, and has since served multiple terms before retiring from the board in 2017. Dr. Phillips is a longtime patron of the arts and, along with his wife Sharon Sullivan, recently established the Paul Phillips & Sharon Sullivan Ceramics Center at the Everson. Phillips was formerly the head of Rheumatology at SUNY-Upstate Medical University.

“Together we are building the community that we want to be part of, and that will be there for our children and grandchildren. The new Ceramics Center ensures that ceramics will remain a vital part of the museum’s program and identity for generations to come, and validates the exciting new mission and direction the museum has embarked upon.” said Phillips.

Everson Lifetime Trustees mission is to create a more involved and informed way for retiring board members and other members to stay in touch with fellow trustees and with the work of the Everson Museum of Art.

Kennedy and Phillips join previously elected Everson Lifetime Trustees; Noreen Falcone, William Hider, Bruce Kenan and Stephen Rogers.