Music Academy of the West employee retires upon 43 years of service
Buildings and Grounds Technician Fred Lehto grateful to see generations of fellows pass through the Music Academy campus
Iu2019ve seen so many things change. I saw the campus change; Claeyssens Hall was just a field when I started here, and Don Quixote Courtyard was a relic. I witnessed the renovation of Hahn Hall and the Main House and the addition of Hind Hall. I saw the Music Academy grow in status from a music school where half of the students paid to be there to becoming a full scholarship institutionu2026Itu2019s been a pleasure to be a part of that.
Fred Lehto
President and CEO Scott Reed began working with Fred Lehto in 1997 when he joined the organization as an intern overseeing alumni connections. “Fred has always brought joy and service to everyone he crosses paths with. He is a treasured colleague among the administration and an expert in our organization’s history. He treats the campus and its beautiful gardens as if they were his own. We thank him and are grateful for his long-term devotion to our mission.”
Board Chair Eileen Sheridan added, “We are pleased to recognize Fred Lehto’s career as an integral part of the administration, serving the Academy’s mission and the community. He has had the longest term of employment in the Academy’s history. We are proud to celebrate this notable achievement.”
Auxiliary Chair Meg DiNapoli said, “Fred has always been a champion for the Women’s Auxiliary. We have relied on his support for our fundraising efforts and he has always delivered for us at the highest standard. I speak on behalf of all of our Auxiliary members when I express my appreciation for his work and send congratulations for reaching this new chapter in his life.”
As Fred Lehto enjoys his retirement in Santa Barbara with his wife, artist paula re, he will continue to be an active presence at the Music Academy, as a attendee, a cherished resource, and a life-long friend.