By Mark D. Wender | Chief Operating Officer
MEMORANDUM
TO: GlobalGiving Community
FROM: Mark Wender Chief Operating Officer
DATE: September 13, 2010 ___________________________________________________________
We are thrilled that Tasmine Ballentine and Reggie Mitchell, two of our Stax Music Academy students, were awarded Presidential Scholarships to the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Several SMA students participated in the Berklee Summer Performance Music Program, but August 10, 2010 will forever be etched into our memories (136 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02215). The Scholarship Concert culminates their five-week experience and our CEO, Kirk Whalum, was in Boston representing the Soulsville Foundation during the concert. In a text message to our Soulsville staff Kirk said, “…my chest is sticking out for all of you.”
The Presidential Scholarships are made possible by a grant established to bring the world's best young musicians to study at Berklee College of Music at no cost to them or their families. Presidential Scholars are invited to attend Berklee for four years, with all tuition, housing, and fees provided. While such awards are not unknown for student athletes, this program is one of a kind at a music college. The scholarships are valued at over $120,000 for each student.
Approximately 1,023 students from all over the United States and 72 different countries applied for this special honor. Typically, less than 10 students receive the prized scholarship each year. We are equally proud of our other students Amber Robinson, Brian Hill and Shelbie Pittman who participated in the Berklee Summer Program. They too are wonderfully gifted and have amazing futures ahead of them.
Thanks for taking time to review our update. We value the unique opportunity to cultivate the musical gifts of students through the SNAP! Afterschool Program and our greatest joy is when our students discover they are able to matriculate academically and artistically with the best in the world. With supporters like you, we will endeavor to make The Stax Music Academy a premiere program for amazingly gifted students!
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