Some of 蘑菇TV鈥檚 talented performing arts students will get a little extra help chasing their dreams thanks to a donation from a university supporter.
OCU alumnus Richard Parry and his wife Gayle have donated $25,000 to the university to establish the OCU NYC Showcase Student Support Endowed Fund.
Proceeds from the fund will be used each year to help deserving students with expenses and travel costs related to the OCU NYC Showcase. The annual event is held each spring and allows graduating OCU performing arts students to showcase their abilities in front of talent agents and show business industry leaders in New York. Many students leave the showcase having secured professional opportunities immediately following graduation.
Richard and Gayle Parry have consistently supported the university鈥檚 performing arts programs, as well as the Kramer School of Nursing鈥檚 Meinders Simulation Center and general university operations. Richard is a 1983 OCU business graduate and a former member of the school鈥檚 Board of Trustees, as well as a former adjunct professor at the Meinders School of Business.
As regular patrons of OCU music, theatre and dance performances, Richard Parry said he and Gayle felt the endowed fund was a unique way to support the performing arts students they see on stage each year.
鈥淭he OCU NYC Showcase is a difference-maker for many students,鈥� Parry said. 鈥淚t has helped launch careers for our OCU Stars. We don鈥檛 want a deserving student to miss out on that opportunity because of the expenses associated with traveling to New York.鈥�
Interim Music and Theatre Dean W. Jerome Stevenson said OCU鈥檚 performing arts faculty, staff and students are grateful for the Parrys鈥� support.
鈥淕enerous and dedicated supporters like Richard and Gayle Parry have a significant impact on the lives and careers of OCU performing arts students,鈥� Stevenson said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 gratifying to see that when OCU supporters recognize a need, they meet that need and create these kinds of career-launching opportunities for talented students who might not otherwise have the means.鈥�
To be eligible to receive funds from the endowment, students must be selected to perform in the showcase and also demonstrate the need for financial assistance.
For more information about the endowment or to make a charitable contribution to increase the fund and support additional students, call 405-208-7000 or email [email protected].
