Alumnus makes $1 million gift to UC College-Conservatory of Music
Retired radiologist supports student success through two funds
Clifford Pleatman, MD, Med ’81, says his earliest memory is singing La Bohѐme in “fake” Italian at age three. “My passion is music,” he says. “Did that really happen? I think so and to this day, I certainly love La Bohѐme.”
The retired radiologist and University of Cincinnati alumnus recently made a $1 million gift supporting music at the UC College-Conservatory of Music (CCM). His desire to support local music and his admiration for the college’s world-class programs led him to CCM.
We are so grateful to Dr. Pleatman for his generosity and the impact he will make on our students.
Peter Jutras, PhD Dean, College Conservatory of Music
After meeting with CCM leaders about students’ immediate needs, Dr. Pleatman chose to support the college with a two-part philanthropic investment. His generous gift creates the CCM Student Success Fund and the CCM Instrument Repair and Acquisition Fund.
“This gift will give CCM students the instruments, tools and space to thrive as artists, performers, creators and scholars who are fully focused on realizing their dreams and bringing their art to the world,” said Peter Jutras, PhD, dean and Thomas James Kelly Professor of Music at CCM. “With this support, our students can present their absolute best in crucial auditions, concerts, interviews and career-launching opportunities. We are so grateful to Dr. Pleatman for his generosity and the impact he will make on our students.”
Helping students with financial challenges
Clifford Pleatman, MD, Med ’81. Photo/Provided.
The CCM Student Success Fund will support the immediate and emerging needs of students with financial barriers. This may include travel to auditions, competition fees, professional attire, meals or other aid that supports their education and artistic growth.
For conservatory students, continuity is crucial as learning develops through practice, rehearsals, studio instruction and collaboration. A financial emergency can interfere with this progress.
The CCM Instrument Repair and Acquisition Fund will also aid students. This gift provides repair and maintenance of CCM’s instrument inventory and will assist students who may not otherwise have the financial means to secure an instrument appropriate for their level of study. This allows students to be fully prepared for lessons, performances and career-defining auditions.
“Dr. Cliff Pleatman’s gift supports two essential parts of student success: navigating the challenges that can interrupt an education and accessing the instruments that make artistic growth possible,” said Jessie L. Grant, PhD, assistant dean of students, CCM. “It helps create the conditions in which students can focus, participate and develop their talent. It also sends a meaningful message: you belong here, and your success matters.”
More about Pleatman
Pleatman says his joys in life are simple and include playing the piano, tournament bridge, listening to live music and supporting organizations like the Greater Cincinnati Guitar Society, Caffѐ Vivace, a local jazz lounge, and CCM.
“I wanted to do the most good for the amazingly talented students at CCM,” he said. “They shouldn’t have to worry about emergency needs; they should be able to focus on their art.”
Pleatman, who retired from Mercy Health-Anderson Hospital, teaches a UC College of Medicine Learning Community of 12 first-year students through their second year. This is his fifth class.
Featured image at top: CCM orchestra rehearsal. Photo/Chris Radcliffe for the UC Foundation.
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