Dear Friends,

While in February we honor Black History Month, the College of Music Diversity and Inclusion Committee is working year-round to heighten awareness of social and cultural issues that affect our learning environment. Through working groups led by students, staff and faculty, a sustained effort to support an academic environment that is civil, respects differences, and is a place where everyone feels they belong. This is in addition to a multi-faceted approach to working with faculty, staff and students to advocate for and increase our enrollment of underrepresented students.

“Listening and Healing” sessions held throughout the academic year create opportunities for students, faculty and staff to be heard and to foster a sense of collective responsibility for diversity and inclusion in our programs and our daily lives. Our growth as a music community in this area has manifested itself in a student-created group called Color Me Music: Alliance for Students of Color. I am proud of this student-driven organization designed to address issues of multiculturalism and diversity in music because it reflects our student’s commitment to inclusion as well as the college’s commitment through our support of their efforts. The group, open to all students, has already played a significant role in this year’s concert celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as well as other events.

It is exciting developments like this that add to our anticipation for the completion of the Billman Music Pavilion. The foundation has been set, concrete poured, and walls are beginning to rise up. To think that our energetic, dedicated, talented and engaged students will have a new world-class facility in which to move their artistry and intellectual achievements forward is inspiring. As always, I am grateful to be part of this community of artists, scholars and educators. I invite alumni, friends and patrons of the arts to join is by supporting the completion of the Billman Music Pavilion – $1.3M to go! In addition to supporting a new facility, you will be supporting the students and faculty who work tirelessly to bring joy to people through the power of music. Your support is critical and much appreciated.

Sincerely,

James Forger
Dean, MSU College of Music