Nancy generously supported a wide variety of performing arts programs in Hawaii. This is a photo of her backstage at the Neal Blaisdell Center Conert Hall after an HOT performance of The Merry Widow. (Photo © 2004 Norm Foster)

1926-2008

Born in Minnesota, Nancy Bannick came to Hawaii in 1948 having earned a journalism degree from Stanford University. After working for the Honolulu Star-Bulletin for several years as a writer and editor, she worked for over 20 years as editor of Sunset magazine.

Nancy was a key player in efforts to save the natatorium, Chinatown and Kapi'olani Park, and also supported the arts through her involvement with the Honolulu Symphony, Hawaii Public Radio, Hawaii Opera Theatre, Chamber Music Hawaii, Live Music Awareness and other organizations.

In 2001 she became a Major Sponsor of the Red-Hot Lava Chamber Music Festival and was a strong supporter ever since. She helped to make the Festival a reality through her generous gifts, and of course, she was always sitting in the front row.

In 2004, Nancy received the Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year Award from the Hawaii chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. She never stopped supporting and working for the causes she believed so deeply in.

Nancy Bannick Memorial Fund To honor the late Nancy Bannick, we dedicate this Festival to her memory. We would like to give you the opportunity to express your respect and remembrance of Nancy by making a gift to the Nancy Bannick Memorial Fund.