It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our founder, Agnes Gund, a visionary philanthropist, arts patron, and tireless advocate for equity and the arts.
In 1977, Aggie founded Studio in a School in response to severe budget cuts that stripped arts education from New York City public schools. Her unwavering belief that every child deserves access to the arts shaped Studio’s mission and created opportunities for more than one million students over nearly five decades.
“Aggie gave young people across New York City the tools to see themselves as artists, thinkers, and leaders,” said Hasna Muhammad, Chair of the Board of Studio in a School. “Her vision transformed classrooms and lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire us to fight for the right of every child to have access to the arts.”
Aggie’s impact extended far beyond Studio. Through her leadership at the Museum of Modern Art, her philanthropy in support of education, social justice, and the arts, and her personal generosity, she changed the cultural and civic life of our city and nation.
All of us at Studio in a School are deeply grateful for Aggie’s leadership, inspiration, and belief in the transformative power of the arts. We honor her extraordinary life and will carry her legacy forward in our work with young artists across New York City.
Make a gift to honor Aggie’s legacy by donating to Studio in a School’s programs.
