Remembering John Hoyt Stookey

By Paul Dolan

Paul is the Secretary of the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation Board of Directors.

The Board of Directors of the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation pays tribute to an extraordinary fellow member, John Hoyt Stookey, who died on January 31, 2021.  John dedicated his life to service to others while also maintaining an active role in corporate governance.  John was remembered in a musical memorial service held at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington, MA on September 25th.

Serving on more than 25 corporate and 30 nonprofit boards in his lifetime, John was deeply respected for his understanding of effective governance.  As one company noted, John brought “a unique, thought-provoking perspective to the boardroom and his sense of humor and respect for all opinions fostered an atmosphere of great camaraderie, insightful discussion and innovative thinking.”

At the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation John played an active, creative role on the board with a constant focus on how the foundation could be most efficient and effective in meeting the complex needs of its grantee partners.  John was a strong supporter of trust-based philanthropy, reducing paperwork, and -- most importantly -- listening to the voices of the community. 

James Allen Smith, Chairman of the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation, noted that “John was not only a highly effective board member, but also an advocate for the nonprofit sector and believed strongly in the diversity of views, people, and approaches to problem-solving that the nonprofit sector brings.  He felt strongly that government needed this vital additional force to make it more accountable and effective.”

With his love of music, John’s contributions were far reaching.  A life trustee of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, John took this passion to renovate and revitalize the Mahaiwe Arts Center and founded Berkshire Choral International. His commitment to service resulted in the creation of Per Scholas which has helped over 12,000 young graduates, many from inner city neighborhoods, launch successful careers in the technology sector, and serving and making a difference on dozens of nonprofit boards, including ours, the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation.

“John was the conscience of the Foundation,” noted Philip Li, the President & CEO of the foundation. “For three decades he served as a trustee helping to create a culture and shaping practices that will be felt and appreciated for years to come.  We join many others in remembering, and celebrating, him.”