Strike up the band – no matter the weather! Thanks to a gift from The University of Akron Women’s Committee, the UA Marching Band now can perform and travel in style, even when the weather is at its worst.
Women's Committee members (l-r) Alice Strickler, Teresa Good, Karen Krino Rickel, and Louise Harvey present a gift to the UA Marching Band for the purchase of new rain gear and garment bags with logos.
Earlier this year, the Women’s Committee approved a gift of $11,000 for the purchase of new rain gear and garment bags, and in April a ceremonial check was proudly presented to band leaders from Women’s Committee officers, including Planning Chair Alice Strickler, President Teresa Good, Treasurer Karen Krino Rickel, Vice President Louise Harvey, and Planning Committee member Diane Lazzerini.
“We are so grateful for the generosity of the Women’s Committee,” said Galen Karriker, director of UA Bands and an associate professor in the School of Music, who was on-hand to accept the gift. “The UA Marching Band is an important part of Zips Nation, and members dedicate an incredible amount of time to honing their skills. This gift is an affirmation of the value and pride the band brings to UA – and will ensure that members look their best whenever they represent the University.”
Karriker was joined at the check presentation by Andy Feyes, first-year director of the Marching Band; Ann Usher, director of the School of Music; and Patty LaNasa, manager of special events and senior lecturer in the School of Music.
Since its inception in 1948, the UA Women’s Committee has contributed countless volunteer hours to create an active interest in The University of Akron by community members. Each year the organization supports UA’s Ambassador Program, hosts a lecture series, and awards a scholarship to a student in the College of Arts and Sciences. Over the years, the organization has provided more than $67,000 in scholarships and more than $200,000 toward numerous UA projects, including the creation of Culinary Teaching Garden at Schrank Hall South, refurbishment of the Law School vestibule, and restoration of Harry Bertoia’s Tactile Sounding Sculpture in the Guzzetta Hall Atrium.
For information on how to join Women’s Committee at The University of Akron, please contact Pat Jolly, membership committee co-chair, at patricia.m.jolly@gmail.com.