The inaugural class of Christine Kefferstan Awards for Excellence have been awarded in the West Virginia University School of Music.

The awards are to be given out annually thanks to a $50,000 gift from alumnus and American Pops Orchestra Founder Luke Frazier.

Frazier made the gift to support the scholarships in 2020. He equates much of his success to the top-notch training and unconditional support he received from Kefferstan throughout his time at WVU.

To read more about Kefferstan, Frazier and his gift, visit https://bit.ly/3HTRDm8.

The Christine Kefferstan Awards for Excellence are $1,000 - 2,000 gifts given annually to support students, faculty and the greatest student needs in the School of Music. This year’s recipients are:

Ryan Walker: a scholarship for a music student studying piano.

Josh Swiger: an award supporting an outstanding faculty award.

Julianna Perkowski: a scholarship for a music student studying string instrument.

Phillip Wilfong: a scholarship for a music student studying a wind instrument.

Samantha Goette: a scholarship for a music student studying voice.

Jonah Henthorne: a scholarship for a music student studying percussion or jazz.

Luke Mazure: a scholarship for a music student majoring in music education/any instrument

“I am thrilled to witness this amazing level of support for our students, faculty, and initiatives,” said College of Creative Arts Dean Keith Jackson. “Luke is a talented recent alumnus who understands how his philanthropy can be a catalyst for the career of these students and for our efforts in bringing high quality arts to the region. Like his talent, his generosity is inspiring.”