It is with Carver Center's deepest sorrow to announce the passing of one of our dearest friends, Christine Stiassni Gerli. Christine Stiassni Gerli, known to many as a wonderful friend, impeccable hostess, inspirational teacher, creative entrepreneur, and loving, devoted wife, mother, grandmother, died peacefully on Thursday, December 2 after a brief struggle with stroke. She was 83. For over 40 years, Christine was a major supporter of Carver's programs and services, with a particular interest in developing a dance program at Carver. In 2009, Christine's vision came to fruition with her plan to underwrite and create the Feffi Stiassni Dance Studio at Carver Center, named for her deceased daughter, who loved to dance. Through the Feffi Stiassni Dance Studio, young boys and girls will have a venue to hone their dance skills. In the weeks before her passing, Christine helped organize a field trip for the 25 children enrolled in our Saturday Ballet Program to see the New York City Ballet's production of The Nutcracker Project. On December 18th, these 25 budding ballerinas will witness the magic of George Balanchine’s masterpiece. Carver Center will ensure Christine's vision of encouraging and nurturing the youth's interest in the fine arts for decades to come.
Please click on the following link to see one of the many videos presented to Carver by Christine Stiassni Gerli and her family. Knowles Multimedia: The Carver Center.. Dance Studio.. (c) knowles media 2010
