Our Origins
The Fritz and Lavinia Jensen Foundation, a Donor-Advised Fund of Foundation For The Carolinas, was established by Lavinia Jensen in honor of her late husband Fritz. The annual Jensen Foundation Vocal Competition supports young artists pursuing a career in opera. The first competition took place in May 2000 and saw a field of 91 competitors. Since the competition was established, 421 singers have received more than $844,000 in support.
Our Board of Directors
Benjamin Leaptrott, Jr., Brenau University | Vice President of the Board
Garret Sloan, Wells Fargo Securities | Treasurer
Kirstin Chávez, Mezzo-Soprano
Ian Derrer, The Dallas Opera
* Jane Pardue, Retired
*Emeritus
In Memorium
The Jensen Foundation's Munday Encouragement Award is named in honor of Lendon Todd Munday, an internationally known lyric baritone in Opera and Oratorio. Before his untimely death in 2000, Todd devoted tremendous time and energy to organizing the Foundation's first vocal competition. It is fitting our Encouragement Award be named for, and embody, Todd's commitment to helping young singers overcome professional obstacles.