Leaders can sometimes make their biggest impact working behind the scenes, contributing in quiet, yet meaningful ways. This was true of Kate and Dr. Carl Turkstra, who with neither fanfare nor headlines, supported Hamilton’s arts and education organizations, with impact and significance.

A native of Hamilton, Carl was the past president of Turkstra Lumber, the region’s largest supplier to contractors. For more than 60 years, it continues to serve Hamilton.  A professional engineer earning awards from the American Society of Civil Engineers, Carl was a distinguished academic at the University of London in the U.K. and New York University, among others.

Together with Kate, they founded the incite Foundation for the Arts to invest in visual and performing arts organizations in Greater Hamilton.  The Turkstras fervently believed in the power of the arts to enrich communities, attract visitors and initiate strong bonds of friendship and civic mindedness. The foundation supports dozens of groups including the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra and Theatre Aquarius. They invested in programs such as An Instrument for Every Child, the All Star Jazz Band and others supporting indigenous people, children and artists to ensure arts and music are embedded in our community. In every corner of the city, their contributions continue to make a real difference in the lives of Hamiltonians.

For their contributions to a stronger Hamilton, for their invaluable investments in community arts and education, and for their quiet and humble approach to leadership and philanthropy, Kate and Dr. Carl Turkstra entered the Hamilton Gallery as clear examples of Hamiltonians who lead lives with distinction.