2008 Liff Spirit Award Honoree

Ted and Joan Cutler

Philanthropists

Joan and Ted Cutler are generous visionaries who recognize the vital connection between strong educational, cultural and civic organizations, the quality of life in metropolitan Boston and the lives of all citizens. Their support – always hands on, always personal – has made a difference to so many.

One of the Cutlers’ most visible and beloved philanthropic initiatives has ensured that the trees along the Commonwealth Avenue Mall have twinkled with fairy lights for the past ten years. These lights have set a symbolic standard for the more than 1000 acres of additional land in Frederick Law Olmsted’s Emerald Necklace. All those committed to restore and enliven Boston’s original 100-year old greenway should strive to similarly recognize and illuminate how urban parks, as common ground, ultimately serve the common good.

As a result of long-time involvement with Emerson College, the Cutlers provided the lead gift for the restoration of the Cutler Majestic Theater. In addition, they have given tirelessly to a range of non-profit organizations including: the Boston Ballet, the Wang Theater at the Citi Performing Arts Center, The Greater Boston Food Bank, the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, the Boston Medical Center, the New England Chapter of the Chrohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, Hebrew College, Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly and the Combined Jewish Philanthropies.