New Music Education Endowed Fund Supports Student Teaching Expenses
Professor Emeritus of Music Education David Zerull, Ph.D., established the Dr. David S. Zerull Endowed Fund for Music Education Student Teachers at Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University on Oct. 30. Funds are intended to assist students with expenses incurred during their semester of student teaching, including travel expenses, supplies or any item(s) deemed necessary in support of their student teaching. It is awarded in equal amounts to all music education student teachers in an academic year and the first awards will be made in the 2024/25 academic year.
“For decades, David has championed music education students and worked to support their success,” said Executive Dean for Creativity & the Arts and Professor of Music Michael Stepniak, Ed.D. “This wonderful fund is in line with that great generosity; providing students with support at a time when they especially need it.”
“David Zerull embodies the spirit of Shenandoah,” said Interim Dean and Professor of Music (Music Education) Jeffrey Marlatt, Ph.D. “His steadfast commitment to the conservatory’s music education program, its students and our alumni is without question. His thoughtfulness extends beyond a student or two — David’s gift will support all student teachers and in turn all of our graduates. I know that establishing this fund is important for David personally, but it is also extraordinarily meaningful for our students to have a member of their faculty create an endowment to support them as they complete their degree programs in music education.”
“It is such a significant gesture to have a valued faculty member establish this endowment to support all of our future music education students,” said Director and Professor of Music Education Stephanie Standerfer, Ph.D. “Student teaching is the capstone to our program and an incredibly stressful time. David’s generous gift will lift some of the stress to allow students to focus on teaching and reaching their dreams. We are very grateful for such a wonderful gift.”
About Dr. Zerull
Dr. Zerull, a passionate advocate for music education, was named Shenandoah University Exemplary Teacher of the Year in 2019 for his excellence in teaching, availability and concern for students, and contributions to the university. He joined the faculty in 1990 after teaching for 13 years in public and private schools in Ohio and Illinois. His classroom experience included vocal music, orchestra, band, marching band and jazz band. During his 33 years at Shenandoah University, Zerull taught undergraduate and graduate courses in instrumental music methods, applied conducting, philosophy and contemporary trends in music education. He conducted the Concert Band and Wind Ensemble, including an appearance at Carnegie Hall in 2007.
Learn More
Endowed funds, such as the Dr. David S. Zerull Endowed Fund for Music Education Student Teachers, allow students to pursue their degrees with fewer financial barriers to their creative success. By endowing a scholarship, fellowship or other fund, donors ensure careers in the arts remain accessible and affordable for all students. To learn more about the ways you can make a transformative gift to Shenandoah University, contact Assistant Vice President for Advancement & Major Gifts Melanie L. Mathewes at mmathewe@su.edu or (540) 665-4733.
