Local Attorney to be Honored with Golden Baton

By: Mary Matthews

Community Writer

Photo Courtesy of:

San Bernardino Symphony

Photo Description:

Dean McVay, Esq., a local lawyer, is one of less than 15 recipients of the Golden Baton award, recognizing contributors to the San Bernardino Symphony who go above and beyond the norm.

Dean McVay, Esq., has been named by the San Bernardino Symphony Guild as the most recent recipient of the Golden Baton Award. Recognizing individuals whose contributions to the Symphony have far surpassed the norm, the award honors those who "exemplify what it means to be a champion of the arts both for the organization and in the broader community," a release issued by the Symphony states. While many contribute to the long term success of the organization, only a few contribute to extent of a Golden Baton awardee. In fact, in the Symphony's 86-season history, less than 15 individuals have been selected for this honor. A partner at Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith and an adjunct professor at the University of La Verne College of Law, McVay continues to support the arts in several ways, including as an active member of the Board of Directors of the San Bernardino Symphony for the last 10 years while also serving on or leading multiple specialized committees, representing the Symphony on the Board of Directors of the Association of California Symphony Orchestras, and numerous other local professional charitable and community-focused organizations. “Dean’s efforts reflect the high ideals of leadership, service and concern for the arts and, ultimately, the future of the region,” said Symphony Guild President Judy Podskalan. McVay will be honored at a black tie gala Friday, March 27 at the historic Mission Inn. The event will feature special performances by the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra String Quartet, by operatic baritone Eric Castro, and by the Symphony’s own Maestro Frank Fetta playing the Mission Inn's historic pipe organ. “This is a rare opportunity to hear this instrument and we are thrilled the Mission Inn has granted us the wonderful gift of access to the pipe organ,” said Fetta, adding, “I cannot think of a more fitting occasion – or a more appropriate recipient – for the Golden Baton.” Interested parties may obtain a copy of the event invitation and response card at the Symphony’s website, www.sanbernardinosymphony.org. For more information, please contact Donna Call 951-300-6201 or calldonnacall@gmail.com.