Originally from Philadelphia, the Calhouns were passionate about their adopted City of Pittsburgh, and especially loved The Pittsburgh Symphony.
Ernest was a former Drexel University Trustee. Cynthia was a respected social and cultural leader in Pittsburgh. The couple moved to Pittsburgh after their marriage in 1925.
Cynthia led many organizations in Pittsburgh. One of her favorite pursuits was roadside beautification.
She served the Social Services Board of The Presbyterian and Women's Hospital, The YMCA, The Civic Club of Allegheny County, Planned Parenthood and the Pittsburgh Symphony, Pittsburgh Guild of Flower Arrangers and The Pennsylvania Roadside Council.
In 1981, Governor Thornburgh named Cynthia a Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania in recognition of her years of community service. In 1982, she was awarded an honorary doctorate from Drexel University, which had previously received $3 million from her husband to support programs in biomedical engineering and science. A Drexel dormitory was also named for her in 1973.
Cynthia passed away in December of 1983. At that time, trustees of the family fund transferred the assets to The Pittsburgh Foundation. Today the fund continues to aid in the care and treatment of abused children.
Type of Fund
- Field of Interest