Keeping the Music Alive and "Wells"

Two renowned music education alumni — brothers Dr. James R. Wells ’54 and Mr. Richard G. Wells ’58 — have established a $3 million endowment to benefit, in perpetuity, the students and faculty of what is now WCU’s Wells School of Music. The largest cash gift ever received by the University will fund scholarships, graduate assistantship programs, travel for music ensembles, state-of-the-art marching band equipment, and music education programming.

“To promote music and music education, the West Chester University School of Music must continue to attract the most talented candidates, offer much-needed scholarships, and secure national recognition as a preeminent music education school”

The official naming of the Wells School of Music was celebrated at a Wind Symphony & Wind Ensemble dedication concert at the Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall on September 27.

The Wells brothers’ endowment will, in part, be used to support travel opportunities for student music groups.

“In order for us to tell our story and reach beyond this region of the country, we must be able to support our ensembles with travel funds,” says Christopher Hanning, the dean of the Wells School of Music. For example, this November the Incomparable Golden Rams Marching Band performed at the Bands of America Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, IN, and the Wind Ensemble will perform in February at the College Band Directors National Association Conference in Tempe, AZ.

Pictured following a president’s reception honoring the Wells brothers are (L to R) John Villella, vice president for university affairs and chief of staff; Elizabeth J. (Noble) Wells ’60, M’66; Mr. Richard G. Wells ’58; WCU President Chris Fiorentino; Dr. James R. Wells ’54; Chris Hanning, dean, Wells School of Music; and Dr. Sue Fiorentino, associate professor in the Management Department.

“This is where my brother and I really got our education, which we were able to apply to our wonderful careers. We thank West Chester for everything it did for us and we’ve enjoyed turning it back to them in some little gift. As I always say, keep music alive.”