West Virginia Symphony Orchestra announces Fifth Third Bank Diversity in Music Fund

CHARLESTON, W.VA. (Nov. 25) – The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is excited to announce the creation of the Fifth Third Bank Diversity in Music Fund.

The new fund, established with the support of Fifth Third Bank, will help the WVSO bring diverse guest artists to Charleston to engage the community through performances with the orchestra and through workshops and presentations in local schools during their time in the city. In addition, concertgoers will be able to attend preconcert talks with Diversity in Music Fund guest artists, at which the artists will discuss not only the works they’ll perform but also their personal journeys to becoming musicians.

“This is an incredible program that encompasses so many things we hold dear,” Bob Welty, Fifth Third’s West Virginia market president. “Diversity, equity and inclusion are integral to Fifth Third’s core values, and education is one of our cornerstones. Being able to expose children to the orchestral world and expand their musical horizons is a very important experience.”

As part of the Fifth Third Bank Diversity in Music Fund, Carline Waugh, soprano soloist for the WVSO’s Dec. 17 Gloria! program, will visit with students from Charleston Catholic High School. In the spring, flutist Demarre McGill will visit March 11 with West Virginia State University students for the school’s annual Flute Day prior to his performance that evening with the WVSO.

“The Symphony is so excited that Fifth Third Bank is joining us on this journey as we strive to make the organization an inclusive one serving all of West Virginia,” said WVSO President Joe Tackett.

About Fifth Third Bank

Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.

Fifth Third Bank, National Association, is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank, and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol "FITB." Investor information and press releases can be viewed at  www.53.com.

About the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra

The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is West Virginia’s premier performing arts organization, presenting classical, pops, education and community programs throughout the Mountain State. Currently in its 84th season, the WVSO is a proud member of the community and enriches the region by providing affordable, high-quality concerts, collaborations with West Virginia arts organizations and a national award-winning education program.

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