As Co-Vice Presidents of the Houston Symphony League Education Committee, Rita Aron and I, in concert with Allison Conlan, Director of Community Engagement, are honored to present this year’s Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cell Award to Mary Fusillo.

Mary is a Houston native and is committed to the city and its vibrant arts community. She has been a member of the Houston Symphony League for over 25 years and is an ardent volunteer and advocate for the Symphony’s education programs.

Mary has long served as a volunteer for the Student and Family Concerts. Despite the rigors of being a business owner, mother of twins, and wife, Mary has always made time to volunteer. As this year’s League President, Mary strongly advocated for the Student and Family Concerts. In every eCounterpoint newsletter and at every Board meeting, Mary never failed to mention the importance of the Symphony’s education offerings and encourage League members to sign up and volunteer with her. She even put in a good word about the Student Concerts when she appeared on KIAH Channel 39 in February.

Allison had this to say –

Upon reflecting on the past several years of working with Mary at our Education events, I’ve come to appreciate her presence in profound ways.

First, Mary possesses an innate ability to discern and address the needs of any situation. I have found myself quietly relieved when she is around, knowing that she will spring into action with a solution before I have the chance to articulate the problem. Mary’s focus is always centered on ensuring the best possible experience for students, a trait I deeply appreciate.

Second, Mary’s infectious energy ensures that any event she attends is bound to be a memorable one. Her sense of humor and warmth have a remarkable way of fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Witnessing volunteers share laughter and forge meaningful connections is truly a testament to her ability to uplift and inspire those around her.

Last, with the countless responsibilities she holds in her role as the Houston Symphony League’s President, her unwavering commitment and consistent presence at our Education events underscores the importance of our collective efforts to serve our community. I’m truly grateful for Mary’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of quality and compassion, reminding us of the profound significance of the work we can achieve together.

Mary’s presence is not just felt; it’s cherished, celebrated, and deeply appreciated by the Houston Symphony family. Congratulations, Mary!

The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony League. Our Houston Symphony League directory is dedicated to this year’s winner, Karinne McCullough.

As a POPS concert subscriber since 1990, Karinne came to know the League in Spring 2014 through a B# Brunch program featuring Principal POPS conductor Michael Krajewski. At the Fall Membership Lunch, she signed up to try almost every volunteer opportunity at least once and life as a volunteer with the League began.

Karinne’s participation spans Education – Student Concert Usher, Family Concerts, Junior Patrons, Instrument Petting Zoo, Crafts, Ima Hogg Competition Judges’ Hospitality Liaison and Liaison for Winner’s Community Residency (both pioneer roles); Fundraising for violins for Lewis Elementary students, Magical Musical Morning; Symphony Community Outreach as liaison for Community Embedded Musicians, escorting CEMs to bedside visits with oncology patients at Texas Children’s Hospital and importantly, simply providing a “pair of hands” behind the scene.

Leadership roles include Recording Secretary (2021-23); Annual Fund Chair (2022); By-Laws Committee (2022); Vice President of Education; Strategic Planning Committee (3 years); Nominating Committee (3 years), and Co-chair of Mailing Committee (3 years). She is a member of the Symphony’s Education Committee. Karinne was the recipient of the 2019 Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award. She and husband Bill are members of the Houston Symphony Legacy Society.

Professionally, Karinne taught pre-school and elementary children with language-learning disabilities. She was a consultant for publishers of classroom material. Karinne holds a JD from South Texas College of Law. In private practice, she focused on insurance defense and appeals before joining the First Court of Appeals as a staff attorney. She served as the Court Administrator until appointed Clerk of the Court, retiring from the Court after 13 years of public service. Other volunteer organizations include the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary and the Barbara Bush Ladies for Literacy Guild.

Karinne and Bill attend South Main Baptist Church where she sings in the Sanctuary Choir. She also serves on the Board of Directors at 2016 Main Condominiums where they live with their two cats, Jack and Red.