Some of the best teachers are found outside the walls of a classroom; some of the best leaders listen far more than they speak; and some of the most unassuming men create the biggest waves of impact.

Howard Shand was all of these. FIM, along with all who knew him, is privileged to be part of the rich legacy created by his humble generosity. Shand passed away on December 23, 2024, but the effects of his 96 years will live long into the future.

Howard married the love of his life, Rita, nearly 70 years ago and took over her family’s business, William E. Walter Plumbing and Heating. He worked diligently to grow the business, provide for his wife and three daughters, and give back to the community he called home.

“He worked hard for every dollar,” says his daughter, Sydney Shand Leathers. “He was very successful and always giving back. He taught us to do the same.”

But his quiet lessons were never about money, Leathers says. “Everything he did was about being a good person, helping others, and celebrating your success by seeing it flourish in others.”

Howard modeled this in every aspect of his life. He was devoted to Rita, rarely missed his daughters’ school and sports events, gave faithfully to his church, and served as a past president of the Flint Golf Club, and generously supported Flint Cultural Center institutions. And, despite his many commitments, he always made it home for family dinners.

FIM was fortunate to be among the organizations he championed. “Howard Shand was a rock, who cared greatly about our community and the importance of the arts,” says FIM President and CEO Rodney Lontine.

Howard served for many years on the FIM Board of Trustees and received the Mrs. J. Dallas Dort Award for his exceptional service. While he was a longtime supporter of the Flint Symphony Orchestra, he had a special investment in FIM’s facilities and students.

“He gave graciously of both his time and treasure to ensure the proper care of FIM’s great halls, classrooms, and theatres for future generations,” says Lontine.

Howard led the expansion and renovation of the Dort Music Center from 2002–2004. “He was onsite every day, wearing his hard hat, making sure everything was done perfectly ‘for the kids,’” says Davin Torre, FIM VP of performing arts instruction and director of the Flint School of Performing Arts (FSPA).

Over the years, Howard and Rita continued to support FSPA, often asking, “What do the kids need? How can we help?” They established an endowment for the FSPA Honors Flute Ensemble and once donated a state-of-the-art set of professional timpani. “The students were in awe – they still are – to have the opportunity to learn and perform on instruments of this quality,” Torre says.

Howard and Rita made an unquestionable difference in the lives of FIM students and staff, as well as countless others across the many organizations they supported. His was a life as generous as it was long, and we’re grateful to have been part of it. He will be missed.