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In a heartfelt tribute to family and a commitment to nurturing music educators, Kenneth and Marla Knas of Glenview, Illinois, have generously created the Knas Family Endowed Scholarship in Music Education, a new College of Music funding source designed to empower and encourage aspiring music educators to pursue their dreams.

The Knas family's decision to create an endowed scholarship is a testament to the enduring influence of Ken's parents, Gregory and Thelma Knas, both of whom were elementary music teachers in instrumental and vocal instruction. Their love for music, imparted to Ken and their other children, left an indelible mark on the family.

Ken is a 1981 graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in Hospitality Management. He and Marla have previously contributed to the construction of the Billman Music Pavilion, and a practice room in the facility is named in their honor. They also created the Knas Family Band Jacket Endowment Fund for Spartan Marching Band. Ken said he fondly recalls his time playing the alto saxophone in the band.

“My Spartan Marching Band experience was one of the prime highlights of my time at MSU,” he said. “It was an extraordinary opportunity, and though not a music major, I was grateful to be a part of that organization and the College of Music.” 

The Knas Family Endowed Scholarship in Music Education supports students pursuing a music education degree, with a focus on those demonstrating a commitment to educational and professional goals. The scholarship places emphasis on qualities such as motivation, initiative, and a drive to seek opportunities for personal and professional growth.

“Scholarships like this one are so helpful to our music education students. We primarily use these funds to support students who are doing excellent work in their classes and show potential to be excellent future teachers,” said Karen Salvador, associate professor and chair of the MSU Music Education Area. “We know that these scholarships can lessen the financial pressures on students as they often are attempting to enroll in classes, perform in ensembles, and work part-time. The generosity of donors like Ken and Marla Knas can meaningfully help our music education students to focus on their studies and persist through the degree program."

The inaugural recipients of the Knas scholarship, Elaina Wizinsky and Breanne Turner, embody the scholarship's mission and purpose.

Elaina is a member of the Spartan Marching Band, a library employee, and an aspiring band director. To her, the scholarship is not just an investment in herself but also in the education of future music students. In a letter to Ken and Marla Knas, she said, "Your scholarship will give me the ability to receive the training necessary to create an environment where students may express themselves, learn valuable teamwork skills, and make beautiful music." 

Like Elaina, BreAnne is on the path to becoming a school choir teacher and expressed to Ken and Marla the honor she feels in receiving this scholarship. She had to leave school when caring for an ailing parent, and returning to school was uncertain until she realized how much she loves music. “I was very surprised and pleased when I received the scholarship this past semester,” BreAnne said. “It has been very helpful as I have been pursuing my studies.”

Assistant Professor of Music Education Ryan Shaw has taught both Elaina and BreAnne and said he admires the work ethic both students display.

“Breanne has shown grit and determination in her quest to be a school choir teacher,” he said. “Elaina is a hardworking horn player who has balanced a busy schedule as a music education student with performing in the Spartan Marching Band.”

The Knas Family Endowed Scholarship in Music Education is more than a financial contribution. It is a meaningful legacy that honors the past, empowers the present, and shapes the future of aspiring music educators. 

“My parents taught and provided a love of music that has lasted throughout my life,” Ken said. “We are so very excited to be involved with Elaina and BreAnne, and subsequent future music educators, and hope that assistance from the endowed scholarship provides opportunities for those that otherwise are unable to pursue this path.  We applaud their commitment, efforts and sacrifices made!”