FRIENDS OF

Throughout his lifetime, Otto Kahn gave generously to support the arts in America, especially those who were struggling and needed financial assistance. Mr. Kahn also served as Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera from 1911 until 1918 and its President until 1931, giving millions to insure its survival. In memory of Otto Kahn and in recognition of his generosity toward struggling artists during the early 20th century, we have established the Otto Kahn Awards.

 

Each year Friends, in partnership with Gary Melius, bestows Otto Kahn Awards to deserving Huntington area public high school seniors who plan to continue their education and training in the fine arts, performing arts and music. Funds for the Otto Kahn Awards are raised at Friends’ annual June Garden Parties held in and around the Formal Gardens at OHEKA.
This program has provided nearly $200,000 in scholarships. 

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For more information or an application, please call 631-367-2570.

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OUR 2023 OTTO KAHN AWARD WINNERS

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Friends of OHKEA proudly announces this year's Otto Kahn Awards. Eight talented high school seniors from the Town of Huntington received $3,000 each. The following deserving students are pursuing their love of the arts as they begin their college education this fall: 

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Victoria Befumo, Fine Arts, Graphic Design Huntington High School / Temple University

Fern Braze, Dance Walt Whitman High School / University of Hartford-Hart School of Dance

Annabelle Bryant, Performing Arts Cold Spring Harbor High School / Boston College

Katerina Damiano, Film Production Huntington High School / SUNY Purchase

Christopher Hummel, Music Harborfields High School / The Juilliard School

Jacob Leshnower, Music Half Hollow Hills High School East / Yale University

Andrew Noonan, Fine Arts Walt Whitman High School / University of Connecticut

Mark Shapiro, Music Half Hollow Hills High School East / New York University

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The students either performed at our annual June Garden Party or had their art work and photography displayed during the event.  

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To date, Friends of OHEKA has raised over $200,000 for high school seniors who are pursuing an education in the arts, carrying on the passion that Otto Kahn (builder and original owner of OHEKA) had for supporting the arts. Current owner Gary Melius and the board of Friends of OHEKA care deeply about carrying on the tradition. 

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