Contributed by Dr. Mary Hellmann, Professor of Music

Chowan University has a long-standing tradition of service to its community and the region. Monday marked another opportunity for Chowan to step in to assist a program that is working diligently to bring music to its community. Chowan University’s Dr. Mary Hellmann and Dr. Christopher Cook delivered recycled band equipment to Lake Taylor High School in Norfolk, VA, where band Director John Hill and students gladly greeted them. 

This connection was initiated when Director John Hill of Lake Taylor High School, Norfolk, VA, was invited to perform with his band at the Mt. Sinai Church of God in Murfreesboro at its Annual Community Day Event on April 22 hosted by Pastor Arthur Clark and his wife, Brenda Clark. Chowan University’s Jazz Band, under the direction of Dr. Christopher Cook, was also asked to participate in this community event.

Dr. Mary Hellmann, Music Department Chair and pianist for the jazz band was struck by the dedication of the group’s leader, Band Director John Hill. He explained that they were having a tough time with their current equipment, and Dr. Hellmann offered to send some recycled equipment from the Chowan Music Department to assist. Dr. Hellmann says that “Chowan University was founded on the principle of serving and assisting others. This focus is what brought me to Chowan, and I am pleased to help in continuing this tradition.”