“No gift is too small. If everyone was to give what they could afford, it would make a real difference to the University.”

-Brian Dursum, Director and Curator
University of Miami Lowe Art Museum

Brian Dursum, Director and Curator for the Lowe Art Museum, learned a long time ago about the importance of giving back to his community. As a child, Brian always asked for one big gift during the Christmas season – and every year he would get his wish, and sometimes a little bit more. However, his parents asked for something in return: For his one special gift, Brian had to donate one of his most beloved toys to charity.

Continuing on with the philanthropic spirit instilled in him as a child, Brian regularly donates art pieces to the Lowe, being sure to give items that may be lacking in the Lowe’s collection. Throughout his 30-year career here, he has continuously strived to create an institution that mirrors the diversity of the community in which it resides, and has met that challenge with great success.

In his ultimate act of largess, Brian recently bequeathed his $2 million estate to the Lowe, to establish an endowment for Asian Art. This endowment will be used to hire a curator for Asian Art, an individual who will teach, conduct research, and acquire pieces for the Museum.

“The Lowe is a valuable visual library, a point of contact, a place where you visit, look, and contemplate,” said Brian. “It is a means of expanding horizons, and an important part of a student’s education.”

On why he chose to give so generously to the Lowe, Brian says, “I found a place that I truly love to be at, and I decided why shouldn’t I give back to the institution that I have enjoyed so much.”

- Charisse Lopez-Mason