Empowering Future Musicians Through Generosity
Dr. Stephen E. King, alongside his late wife Linda J., has established a lasting legacy by creating a scholarship fund dedicated to nurturing musical education. This initiative will provide financial assistance to students pursuing music studies, spanning from their freshman year through graduate programs.
From Roots to Roanoke: A Journey Through Music
Born in Hopkinsville but raised in Louisville, Dr. Stephen King eventually settled in Catawba, Virginia, where he spent much of his adult life contributing to the field of music education. His career began as a band director at Coeburn High School in Wise County, Virginia, a position he held for four years. It was during this time that he met his beloved wife, Linda, marking the start of a partnership that would significantly influence his professional trajectory.
Following their marriage, they relocated to Roanoke County. Here, Dr. King continued to excel, serving as a band director for 17 years while simultaneously earning a master’s degree in educational administration from Radford University. His commitment to fostering artistic growth did not stop there; he also served ten years as the fine arts supervisor for Roanoke County Schools, taking a brief hiatus to complete his doctorate at Virginia Polytechnic Institute.
Inspiring Students Across Virginia Tech
Dr. King's dedication to education led him to join the music faculty at Virginia Tech, where he remained for an impressive 21 years. Throughout his tenure, he actively participated in various state-level music associations, enhancing both his own expertise and the broader community's appreciation for music. His involvement in these organizations underscored his passion for promoting excellence within the field.
His approach to teaching was heavily influenced by Ed Knob, his former band director at WKU. Known for being demanding yet supportive, Mr. Knob instilled in Dr. King the importance of setting high expectations and guiding students toward achieving them. This philosophy became central to Dr. King's own teaching methodology, shaping countless young musicians over the years.
WKU: The Catalyst for Success
Reflecting on his college days, Dr. King recalls arriving at WKU with aspirations fueled by encouragement from his best friend, Walt Lawrence. Upon stepping onto campus, he immediately felt welcomed—a sentiment that resonated throughout his entire academic journey. Initially struggling academically despite excelling socially, Dr. King credits hard work and personal responsibility for turning things around.
Working odd jobs like slicing sausage early mornings or closing shifts at the South Hall Grill helped instill discipline into his daily routine. These experiences, coupled with securing a position as the "turnkey" for the music department, allowed him to stabilize financially and focus more intently on his studies. By his senior year, he achieved inclusion on the dean's list and even joined the prestigious Acapella Choir, further enriching his musical education.
Building Connections That Last
Joining Phi Mu Alpha fraternity proved pivotal in expanding Dr. King's network and solidifying lifelong friendships. Leadership roles within the fraternity prepared him for future challenges, equipping him with essential skills needed for success in leadership positions across multiple levels of music-related organizations.
Memorable moments such as performing with the marching band at a bowl game in Orlando and participating in choir tours remain cherished highlights of his collegiate experience. Each event contributed uniquely to his growth, reinforcing values like teamwork, perseverance, and responsibility that continue influencing his outlook today.
A Community Defined by Kindness
Returning frequently to WKU's campus, Dr. King marvels at how warmly he continues to be greeted by strangers-turned-friends. This pervasive sense of community reflects what makes WKU special—an environment where respect thrives and connections endure beyond graduation. Motivated by gratitude for opportunities afforded him, Dr. King aims to extend similar blessings to others via his newly established scholarship fund.
This generous act symbolizes hope extended forward, empowering aspiring musicians who may face obstacles reminiscent of those encountered earlier in his own path. Through this contribution, Dr. King ensures that legacies of inspiration, learning, and kindness persist long after his lifetime concludes.