An unusual spirit of philanthropy beats in the hearts of two young brothers and alums of Clairbourn School. Richard and Eric Dong are only 14 and 12 years-of-age, but already they are making their mark in the world as difference-makers. The Dong Family contacted Clairbourn last spring to announce that Richard and Eric would like to establish a $30,000 scholarship fund to support music and the arts.
The real wow-factor of this gift is that Richard and Eric earned the money themselves from their own successful business investments. Both brothers, while at Clairbourn, were known for sharing their gifts for creative expression with their fellow students. Richard, an award winning pianist, often played the piano for Clairbourn students at Chapel and in the talent shows. Before playing, he would share remarks on the meaning and feeling a particular piece so the students would develop a deeper appreciation for music.
Some of Eric’s major musical credits include playing piano in Carnegie Hall on March 6th, 2011, where he was the 2nd Place Winner of the 2011 American Protege International Competition for Piano and Strings. Additionally, Richard performed in Merkin Concert Hall in 2011 where he won third place. Richard then became the 2nd place winner of the 2013 American Protege International Competition for Romantic Music held at Carnegie Hall. Both boys also share their talents by playing on the weekends for the public in the Pasadena Central Library, and they play for senior citizens in the cities of Alhambra and Monterey Park.
When presenting the scholarship to Dr. Nafie on behalf of himself and Eric, Richard remarked, “I hope the scholarship will inspire more students to develop their talents in music and the arts which, I believe, will bring peace, love and happiness to us all. My brother Eric and I love Clairbourn School, the teachers and staff, and our classmates. We hope to contribute more in the future. Our very best wishes to the school.”
Their father, Edward Dong, shared, “My wife Charity and I are also inspired by Richard and Eric. We are very happy and proud that they did this meaningful thing for their school.” These funds will be used to award annual financial scholarships in recognition of high student achievement in the areas of music and the arts. In music, this includes vocal music, orchestral instruments, and band instruments. In the arts, this includes drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, and all of the fine arts taught at Clairbourn.
Young children invariably look up to the students in the older grades for models of behavior, accomplishment, and inspiration. Eric and Richard were always in the spotlight during their time on campus, and with every note played on the piano and with every stroke of their creative expressions, both Eric and Richard have provided extraordinary models that will remain unforgettable in the minds of Clairbourn’s students.
It is with warmest gratitude and enduring thanks that Clairbourn accepts this gift of a music and arts scholarship that will benefit and inspire the students of Clairbourn School for years to come.
Clairbourn School Provides Private School Education for Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary School, and Middle School Grades | Serving Families in the Pasadena, California, Area and Surrounding Cities (K-12 Private Schools) | Clairbourn is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. Click here to request information.