Delaware State University (DSU) Appointment

An institution founded in 1891 as the State College for Colored Students takes pride in its first heritage as one of the countries first land-grant educational institutions rooted early on in agriculture and education. It is fully accredited and diverse in its student population as it is in the many studies available. It has long been considered one of America's prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The current population is 76 percent African-American enrollment with an increasing number of Caucasian, Hispanic, Asian, and other international students. The University is located in Dover and only 15 minutes from my place of employment.

Today I visited the Director of the Music Department during my lunch hour. I was introduced to several professors. I met with Ms. Yvonne Johnson. She gave me a list of classes for a BA in Music or BA in Music Education. She asked me to follow her and I met the Professor of Music Theory and Ear Training. While I was being shown the classrooms, I could hear the practicing band, jazz pianists, and choir....all at the same time. It made me smile and giggle. She told me, "We're in luck, the visiting choir from Ohio Wilburforce University is visiting and is performing this hour." I sat in the choir room with the choir students and listened to 50 of the most soulful voices I have ever heard. They sang the spirituals "The Eyes of All Wait Upon Thee," "Steal Away," "Beula Land" and more. At the end of this amazing, intimate mini-concert, both choirs joined and sang a spirited "Battle of Jericho." was brought to tears as each song was sung with such passion and joy and because I instantly wanted to be part of such music.

At almost 45 years old (in two months), I have decided to become a fully fledged college student. I am at such a peaceful and happy time in my life. Being part of a community that opened its arms to me through music and theatre at the Opera House, churches, schools, and other organizations has only heightened the passion to love it even more. I am so excited to begin my Freshman year this fall.

My supervisor has been very supportive as he will allow me to adjust my schedule to participate in future day classes. Jim has promised to be willing and flexible as possible with our parental/child visitation schedule. He is excited for me too. As is my good friend Gerald, who has helped me think out this decision with such love and support.

I am very blessed to have been born into a family that shares its love and spirit through music. When I think of my very first memories of music, I think of my Grandmother Addicott, her sisters, and their mother Bertha Welles, singing around the piano. Both my mother and father sang to me, as did my Step Grandmother Margaret Wall.