Central College received a generous gift of $173,333 from the estate of Nancy Ann Voerman Stewart, Class of 1973. Stewart, who passed away November 1, 2022, was a devoted musician and educator who carried a lifelong passion for Central even though she didn’t graduate from the college. Her legacy will now support future generations of Central students in pursuit of their education.
“She loved Central,” says her daughter, Suzanne Smith of Lexington, South Carolina. “The only reason she left Central was because of financial hardship. When people asked where she went to school, she always said Central. She always spoke highly of it. She wanted to ensure that students wouldn’t have to leave Central because of financial struggles, as she had. That’s why she wanted to leave this gift.”
Stewart followed in her father’s footsteps Joseph Voerman, Sr., a 1944 Central graduate. She initially attended Central to study piano and was actively involved in the college community, including as a cheerleader, A Cappella Choir, Mu Gamma Pi and Sigma Phi Omega. “The Ray,” April 2, 1971, indicated that Stewart was in the sophomore Pietenpol Cup competition, writing the music for their production, “Pages of a Dream.”
Music became the heartbeat of her life, and she dedicated herself to performing, directing and teaching, leaving an indelible mark on countless students and audiences worldwide.
Her work with the American Magic Lantern Theater took her across the globe, from Mexico City to Poland, sharing the history of early cinematic storytelling through live music. Stewart also served as the artistic director of the Greater Hartford Opera Ensemble and directed the Greater Meriden Community Chorus, bringing music to diverse communities, including nursing homes and underserved groups.
Stewart’s influence extended beyond performance. She taught voice and piano, directed vocal competitions and led community theater camps that provided opportunities for young musicians, regardless of their financial situations. She also fostered cross-cultural connections through music, working with the Yale Chinese Chorus and leading performances at Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House.
“She lived and breathed music,” Smith shares. “Even beyond retirement age, she was still traveling and performing. She didn’t feel like she needed to retire. She never saw what she did as work.”
Her strong faith guided her throughout her life. As an organist and choir director, she used her talents to bring people closer to music and to their faith. Even in her final years, despite illness, Stewart continued to perform, teach and learn.
“She always believed that when you stop doing what you love, life is over,” Smith says.
Stewart’s generosity ensures that her love for Central and her passion for music will continue to inspire and support students for years to come. Her legacy will live on through the opportunities her gift provides, helping students pursue their education by reducing financial constraints.
“Bequests play a vital role in shaping the future of Central,” says Deb Calderwood, planned giving and major gift officer. “The Nancy Voerman Stewart ’73 Endowed Scholarship will provide essential support for students while reducing financial burdens so they can focus on their academics and campus life.”
For more information about estate gifts to Central, contact the development office at 641-628-5154 or visit our website, plannedgiving.central.edu.
