The Lorenzo FoundationA legacy of supporting artistic excellence.
A legacy of supporting artistic excellence and educational achievement.
Continuing the Brucia family legacy.
The Lorenzo Foundation was established to continue and expand upon the rich artistic legacy of the Brucia family, whose commitment to the performing arts spans generations. Giuseppe Brucia helped found the San Francisco Opera in 1922, Joseph and Francis Brucia funded the first simulcast of the San Francisco Opera in 2006, and Larry, Rebecca, Louise and Francesca established the Avanti Awards for artists from 2008–2017.
With deep roots in the San Francisco Opera community and connections throughout the performing arts world, the Lorenzo Foundation bridges the gap between traditional artistry and contemporary innovation — ensuring the next generation of performing artists and scholars has the support they need to flourish.
The San Francisco Opera Company
With a generous donation by Giuseppe Brucia in 1919, the San Francisco Opera company begins its stellar performances in San Francisco.
The First Simulcast
Joseph and Frances Brucia fund the first simulcast in 2006, seen by 8,000 San Franciscans at the San Francisco Civic Center.
The Avanti Awards
Larry, Louise and Francesca Brucia begin the Avanti Awards for individuals in the performing arts.
Dedicated leaders in arts, education & nonprofit management
Board of Directors
Christy Schumar
After many years in the business world, her interest in non-profits became a passion: "It's easy to look around and find a need in most every corner of the world." Christy joined the Lorenzo Foundation to support performing artists and students of all ages.
Scott Shaffer
Scott's passion over many years has been in the food industry, with the unique innovations of the retail and food service industries. He believes in supporting young people to develop skills that will last them a lifetime.
Hilary Aceves
Hilary has worked with Lorenzo Brucia for over 20 years, including the Avanti Awards and art projects in Europe and San Francisco. She helps coordinate these events and foster the passions of young artists through the Lorenzo Awards.
Advisors
Lorenzo (Larry) Brucia
Lorenzo has over 20 years in the arts, including as Director of the Joseph and Frances Brucia Foundation, establishing exhibitions of his art in Europe and the United States, authoring several books and designing game adventures.
Rebecca Brucia
Rebecca had extensive experience coordinating the Avanti Awards for over 10 years. Her career was in the fashion industry, working with women's accessories and department stores in New York City and Dallas, Texas.
Walter Robb
Walter had an extensive career in retail food — over 30 years, mostly with Whole Foods Market, including as Co-CEO. He helped create the Whole Kids Foundation and Whole Cities Foundation, now part of the Whole Foods Market Foundation.
There's a place for you in the Lorenzo Foundation family.
Whether you're an artist seeking support, a student pursuing excellence, or a community member who believes in the power of arts and education.