The Sudler Flag of Honor awards are made
possible through the generosity of Louis and Virginia Sudler.
Louis Sudler was a rare combination of successful business man, a performing artist, and a
nationally known patron of the arts. He was the founder of the Chicago real estate firm,
Sudler and Company; his urge for achievement in the business world was equaled only by his
intense desire to assist and inspire talented young musicians.
Mr. Sudler appeared nationally as a soloist in concerts, oratorio, with symphony
orchestras, with concert bands, at functions honoring five United States presidents, and
as a recording artist. A baritone, he was a member of the Chicago Civic Opera.
Louis Sudler had long expressed his interest in the arts, not only as a successful
performing musician but as a patron of the arts, vitally interested in recognizing
outstanding accomplishments, particularly by students at the high school and college
levels. He was founder and host of the Peabody award-winning television program,
"Artist's Showcase," which ran for 14 years. He was internationally known for
his leadership of The Orchestral Association of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and served
on the boards of many art institutions in this country. Over the years he established
scholarships and awards for young talented musicians through the Louis Sudler Foundation
and the Sousa Foundation.
His wife, Virginia Brown Sudler, a patron of the arts, remains active in The John Philip
Sousa Foundation, serving as Vice-President on the Executive Board.
