A Legacy in Harmony

John and Ruth Ann Evans Support Music at UCI Arts

John and Ruth Ann Evans have long believed music can connect people and enrich lives. Their planned gift to the UC Irvine Claire Trevor School of the Arts Department of Music will create scholarships for music students and support choral and orchestral activities, continuing a legacy of philanthropy that spans generations.

Both lifelong musicians, the Evanses began their journey with music as children, singing and playing piano. While living in Iran for two years, they sang with the Tehran Philharmonia Chorus, performing major works such as Mozart’s Requiem and Handel’s Messiah. That passion has carried into their support of UC Irvine’s music department and the Pacific Symphony, where John serves on the board.

“Music helps create a more charitable feeling towards everyone,” said John Evans. “It shapes us by going into our subconscious minds and becoming part of who we are.”

The Evanses’ endowment will provide scholarships for first-generation students who demonstrate both musical excellence and a commitment to community service or philanthropy. They hope that recipients will carry forward the same spirit of giving, ensuring the impact of this gift continues through future generations.

The Evanses first became involved with UC Irvine in 1987 through the Chancellor’s Club and have remained engaged for nearly four decades. Their leadership includes chairing the UCI Medal twice and serving on the Claire Trevor Society Leadership Committee, among other university roles.

With this latest gift, John and Ruth Ann Evans are investing in the next generation of musicians and cultural leaders at UCI Arts, ensuring the arts remain a powerful force for connection, inspiration and ingenuity.

To read more about John and Ruth Ann Evans' endowment, visit plannedgiving.uci.edu.