The photo includes the three wind conducting TAs who conduct Campus Band, Alex Mondragon, JaQuan Wiley, and Beau Bujol, alongside Kathy and director of bands Kevin Geraldi.
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To Kathleen “Kathy” Harvey [B.S. microbiology, ‘72, Ed.M., ‘78], band has always been more than just a hobby. It’s been a lifelong way to make an impact and stay connected to something larger than herself. As a proud Illinois alumna, Kathy has been a generous supporter of the band programs through the years, contributing to areas such as the Illinois Bands Loyalty Society and, most notably, the Harry Begian Assistantship Fund in Bands.
While at Illinois, Kathy had the privilege of performing under Dr. Harry Begian, whose excellence as both a conductor and teacher left a lasting impression. “He was just so passionate,” Kathy recalls. “He was the kind of director you wanted to do well for because you knew how much he cared for you and the music.” She remembers how Dr. Begian fostered a sense of belonging and connection among his students, which she believes is essential to any great band program.
When asked about what she hopes gifts like hers will accomplish, Kathy talked about her wish for the program to turn out passionate, respected professionals just like Harry Begian. “When a program’s graduates are able to influence other people in a positive way and make a truly remarkable difference, that impact spreads out to potential students who are then able to see firsthand what Illinois Bands is capable of.” The Begian Fund, according to Kathy, is the perfect way to accomplish this.
The Begian Fund helps students advance in various ways through stipends, trips, and other tools designed to expand their musical journey. What Kathy wishes is to expand that fund for more students to be able to take advantage of it, which then makes the music program look even more desirable and established to the public.
Today, in addition to being a fervent supporter of the various band funds, Kathy continues her love of music in the Illinois Campus and University Bands. Through her participation and support, Kathy ensures Begian’s message is spread and that alumni hear about the impact they can have on a program that has given so much to them already.
The photo below includes the three wind conducting TAs who conduct Campus Band, Alex Mondragon, JaQuan Wiley, and Beau Bujol, alongside Kathy and director of bands Kevin Geraldi. To make a contribution to Illinois Bands, please visit our website or contact David Allen, Director of Advancement.
Article courtesy of Illinois Bands.
The photo includes the three wind conducting TAs who conduct Campus Band, Alex Mondragon, JaQuan Wiley, and Beau Bujol, alongside Kathy and director of bands Kevin Geraldi.