The Impact of the Donation
The generous donation will support two important scholarships - the Kent Finlay Legacy Endowed Scholarship and the Tommy Foote Memorial Scholarship. These scholarships pay tribute to two legendary figures in Texas music and reflect TXST's commitment to preserving the state's vibrant musical heritage.Kent Finlay: A Musical Pioneer
Kent Finlay ‘61 co-founded Cheatham Street Warehouse in 1974 and became a cornerstone of the San Marcos music community. Under his guidance, the venue became a nurturing ground for emerging artists like George Strait ‘79, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Randy Rogers ’01. Finlay's dedication to Texas music extended beyond running the venue. He mentored young songwriters through his weekly "Songwriters’ Circle" and established the Cheatham Street Music Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to preserving Texas music. His influence on the local music scene cannot be overstated.Finlay's commitment to nurturing talent and promoting Texas music set the stage for the success of countless artists. His legacy lives on through the scholarships that bear his name, ensuring that future generations of students will have the opportunity to pursue their musical dreams at Texas State University.
Tommy Foote: A Pillar of the Music Industry
Tommy Foote ‘75 spent 50 years in the music industry and was George Strait's original drummer in the Ace in the Hole Band. Later, he served as Strait's tour manager for over four decades, supporting and guiding the success of one of country music's most celebrated careers. The Tommy Foote Memorial Scholarship was established to honor his legacy following his passing in April 2024.Foote's contributions to the music industry were significant. His work with George Strait helped shape the sound and success of country music. The scholarship named in his honor will continue to recognize his impact and provide support to students who share his passion for music.
The Center for Texas Music History: Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future
The Center for Texas Music History at TXST is dedicated to exploring the stories, sounds, and significance of Texas music. Through scholarships and innovative programs, the center equips students with the knowledge and experience needed to honor Texas's influence on music history and culture.The donation from Cheatham Street Warehouse will play a crucial role in furthering the center's mission. It will enable students to delve deeper into the rich history of Texas music and gain a deeper understanding of its importance.
President Kelly Damphousse, Ph.D. expressed pride in being part of this musical legacy. Randy Rogers' generous gift, as a former student himself, celebrates the rich heritage of Texas music at TXST and reinforces the university's commitment to honoring legends like Kent Finlay and Tommy Foote.
Jason Mellard, Ph.D., director of the Center for Texas Music History, shared his gratitude for the donation. "We are so very grateful for Cheatham Street's generosity. The donation ensures that generations of TXST students will have the support they need to continue their studies and to explore Texas's rich musical history."The Center for Texas Music History remains committed to its mission of preserving and celebrating Texas music. With the support of donations like this, it will be able to continue making a significant impact on the music community.
For more information about the TXST Center for Texas Music History and ways to support its mission, please contact Mellard at jasonmellard@txstate.edu.