Save The Wilkes University Band Program

Comments

#1001

Nothing teaches you like music!!

Stephen Hartman (Fayetteville, 2020-05-14)

#1011

The marching band was critical to my first two years on campus at Wilkes. I would not have survived without the support from my band mates. I also gained important leadership experience that made my college experience more marketable. It's the reason why I chose to go to Wilkes and not Kings.

Lena Campisi (Weeki wachee, 2020-05-14)

#1013

I am a music educator.

Christine Katsock (Plains, 2020-05-14)

#1015

My daughter is going to Wilkes and wants to join the band!

Tom Nolen (Dunmore , 2020-05-14)

#1017

I'm signing this petition because I have seen various music and arts programs, whether at the high school or collegiate level, always be the first to be cut from a budget. I attended St. John's University in the fall of 2013 as a Psychology Major, but my passion was with performing. I stayed for a semester, and transferred to Wilkes in the second semester of 2014. Originally, Wilkes was my second choice, but I have been a performer since I could talk. I majored in Musical Theater and was a dance minor, though I did not participate in the marching band, I know several of my peers who did and for most of them it wasn't just a class or something to do, it is their passion, just as the performing arts program was mine. My first semester at Wilkes changed my life. Before attending, I was seriously depressed and it had been years since I performed. I will never forget the amazing feeling of being a part of such a creative and challenging program, it brought joy back into my life. I was pursuing my passion and everyday spent in acting class, vocal studio, the university's choir, warming up for dance in the lobby of the Darte...it meant the world to me. To take that away from anyone is horrendous and although I was never in the band, we worked closely with many of it's members when performing musicals. Live performance is magical. Everyone and every ascpect in sync, unlike movies or tv shows, each night we had one shot and we always gave it our 100%. If you take away this marching band, you are taking away the passion and joy from those not only involved currently, but the alumni who created life long memories. In this hour of the unknown and a world that is rapidly changing, music not only provides comfort, it remains the constant variable and the Universal language for which we all can understand. Please, I beg you not to do this. And if you are set on your decision, then I would advise those making it to attend a live concert or go on a streaming platform and watch any live recorded performances. Picture those performers as your students at Wilkes University. Observe the joy and passion these performers have, and put yourself in their shoes. Now imagine the rug being pulled out from underneath your feet when you are told this creative outlet is no longer available to you. How would you feel? Money is of course a factor, but at the end of our lives, what will have mattered most isn't how much money we saved or made from decisions such as these, but the fact that we as humans have made the world a better place-not only for ourselves, or others-but for generations to come, and if you cannot understand how much music means to the world, then really take a look back at our history and the impacts music has made.

Taylor Lamerand (South Fallsburg, 2020-05-14)

#1018

I'm signing this petition because the students need alternative outlook on life and recreation.

Desiree Sims (Aldan , 2020-05-14)

#1019

This is essential and does not deserve to be cut

Rich Wakefield (Swoyersville , 2020-05-14)

#1020

It is tragic to cut the arts from schools and has proven to actually hurt their overall education. Students need an outlet and need something to be proud of in order to truly succeed, many students find this in the arts.

Kelly Moore (Lancaster, 2020-05-14)

#1022

Music needs to be available to students. It is an outlet that many need at this time especially.

Erin Kreis (Dunmore, 2020-05-14)

#1023

I'm signing because music is a big part of many lives, mine included . Many people need music to stay happy and healthy. Don't take this away from people

Chelsea Margallis (Kingston, 2020-05-14)

#1028

I am signing because band is does so many amazing things for so many people, to not have band would be for a school to not have a heart.

Sarah Carten (Reading , 2020-05-14)

#1029

this was a major factor in my son's choice when he chose Wilkes University. Music is more than just a hobby for him it keeps him grounded. It's his lighthouse when things get rough. Loosing it will leave him stranded at sea...please don't do that to him.

John Gaudio (Parsippany , 2020-05-14)

#1030

I’m signing because I believe that the arts, especially music, should never be sacrificed when a university is produced well-rounded students. Music is an outlet and saving grace for countless students. Don’t let the arts die!!!

Ashley Kempa (Old Forge, 2020-05-14)

#1035

Music is truly a universal language and has done so much for so many people. It is equally as important as sports programs and may even require more skills and dedication. Don’t cut a program that means so much to so many people. It was be a shame.

Kelly Aarons-Castellanos (Bridgeport, 2020-05-14)

#1036

Signing for my dad. Music is a must!!

Lindsey Cronauer (Mountain Top, 2020-05-14)

#1041

My son is a member and it would be a very big loss to him and all the members of the bands. The music department is part of the reason he chose Wilkes so please don't cut this program.

Sheri Morgan (Scranton , 2020-05-14)

#1046

Band in high school and college was some of the greatest times of my life. At 42 years old, I still have the friends I made. My band directors were some of the greatest mentors I have ever had and the lessons I learned from them still stand. Not just about music, but about life. It gave this introverted, nerdy low-self esteem kid a family and a sense of belonging. Please don't take it away from these kids. They need it.

Jennifer Potcher (Kuna, 2020-05-14)

#1050

I'm signing because I support music in our schools, on every level. It provides a creative stress relieving outlet.

Curtis Sample (Miami, 2020-05-14)

#1052

Music is important, it makes people happy. It makes people thrive. You wouldn’t take away a sport would you? Why take something that means so much to someone away.

Riley King (Milton, 2020-05-14)

#1056

Arts are not optional!

Gigi Duggan (Bear Creek, 2020-05-14)

#1059

As someone who has been involved both myself, and as a parent of a music student, on all levels of schooling, elementary, secondary and college, I know first hand the importance of a music program. This program serves not only the students and faculty but the community at large. The Wilkes program offers concerts in Civic and Jazz bands to the community. Likewise the Marching Band entertains the community at football games and parades. The other sports of Hockey and Basketball have performances by the Pep Band. In addition to the academic opportunities offered at Wilkes one of the deciding factors for my son to attend Wilkes was the music program and the opportunities it offered to him. He and I have met many wonderful people through the Wilkes music program. To erase this wonderful asset to Wilkes University would be a huge mistake, a huge loss for the university and the community as well. It is my most sincere plea that this program be saved. Music stays with all of us for a lifetime, denying your students and your community these opportunities would be a grave disservice.

Thomas Morgan Sr. (Scranton PA, 2020-05-14)

#1064

Music soothes the human soul

Sandra Hintze (Bethlehem, 2020-05-14)

#1067

I believe that music education and music programs are essential to a well rounded education.

Nothing beats a live marching band at football games! Nothing!

Nelson Wood (Scranton, 2020-05-14)

#1071

Do some research! Music is intrinsically valuable!! Would be very sad and disappointing behavior.

Adele Tavella (Pittston, 2020-05-14)

#1072

I feel that band programs are vital to all around education. Music also opens many doors for students who are blessed with artistic talents. True talent should be developed, supported and encouraged.

Suzie George (Notasulga , 2020-05-14)

#1073

Save the Wilkes University Band!

Nancy Jakuboski (Avoca, 2020-05-14)

#1075

I know many people who have been positively impacted by participation in the band/music program at Wilkes University. Save the arts!!!

Robin Harbaugh (Edwardsville, 2020-05-14)

#1077

That a petition is necessary to preserve band as an activity at Wilkes University is an indictment of those making the decisions.
Let the band play on.

Megan Hastie (Barrytown, 2020-05-14)

#1078

Band is really important to me, and students should be able to save their programs so they can experience the same joy.

Nisha Sidana (East Hampton, 2020-05-15)

#1086

Music is more important than "redesigned" landscaping. This is ridiculous.

Elizabeth Brown (Hamburg, 2020-05-15)

#1087

Too often we see the arts taken away from those who really need it. We've learned time and time again that students benefit from these things, but also having extra curriculars like this could be the deciding factor that makes someone want to go to your school!

Jessica Kabbash (Lyndhurst, 2020-05-15)

#1090

This made a awesome difference in a friends life

Brandi Scofield (San Manuel, 2020-05-15)

#1091

Music (especially being in multiple bands) has impacted my life more than imaginable. I don’t know if I’d be here without it

Dylan Daugherty (Mansfield, 2020-05-15)

#1093

The band program allows for a lot of positive social interaction while simultaneously increasing morale. It also acts as a recruitment outlet for Wilkes.

William Smith (Sellersville, 2020-05-15)

#1094

I have seen the impact this program has on my friends. I know how awful it would feel to lose the program I love at my own school, I wouldn't wish that on anyone. The Wilkes band program brings so many young adults happiness and a sense of belonging in a world where those qualities are pretty hard to find these days. To the administrators making this decision, I understand there may be a financial burden placed on Wilkes; however, when you yourselves were younger, don't you have that one thing you wish you could have saved, or stuck to? Perhaps it was a program, a show, a job, or maybe even just a toy. I know I do, and I constantly wish there was more I could have done. You have that opportunity now to save that little bit of light for other young adults.

Alexis Dubois (Luzerne , 2020-05-15)

#1097

My son found himself in music and it turned his life around. So much so, he went on to college to become a music teacher.

wanda jonsson (Vermilion, 2020-05-15)

#1098

Band programs shouldn’t be cut

Annica McLean (Cary, 2020-05-15)

#1100

I’m singing due to the premise of being a liberal arts school. As a ‘18 alumn, we boasted about being unique. Being special. Being a university that not only has the prestigious Engineering, Pharmacy, and Nursing schools, but also the dance, theatre, art, and music majors and programs. I believe if you cut the arts, you can no longer boast about these things. I guess we might as well go back to being a university that just has another mediocre football team....

Mitch Steiner (Benton, 2020-05-15)

#1102

Band is an important part of many people’s lives. Don’t take this away from these young people.

A K (Germantown , 2020-05-15)

#1103

music is highly important

Kendra Williams (Laurel Run, 2020-05-15)

#1104

I love band and I want others to have the opportunity to experience it

Caleb Hanes (Glen Burnie , 2020-05-15)

#1105

I care about bands and want people to enjoy

Joe Yocam (Lake forest, 2020-05-15)

#1106

Music is such a big part of peoples’ lives and band has affected me so much, even in the one year I’ve been a part of the marching band. Everyone deserves a chance to have music in their lives!

Michelle Davis (Walhalla, 2020-05-15)

#1107

Band is a really important part of the high school experience and it should not be cut from school funding. As a member of my school’s Colorguard I know just how important band is and it deserves to be a part of every high school

Lauren Montes De Oca (Wesley Chapel, FL, 2020-05-15)

#1108

I know band has saved my life, and I know it has saved others too.

Parker Tockstein (Hudsonville, 2020-05-15)

#1112

Band is not just an activity, but a family. Taking away the program would be the same as taking away a family.

Kimberly H. (North Carolina, 2020-05-15)

#1113

I am a proud music alumni of 1979.
Taking music out of any educational institution is tragic.
After graduation I went on to earn my doctorate and become a school administrator. In every school I served, I either reintroduced music back into the curriculum or boosted the support of what existed. I am proud to say that all of these programs still exist and have thrived.
Music teaches so much more than notes and melodies. Do your research Wilkes.
Yes, science and math are important but so is music. And the Arts are more than the Sadoni Gallery. And let's not talk about the sports program.
You should be ashamed of yourself for even thinking of doing away with the program.
I am embarrassed to say I graduated from this school.

Kathleen Herpich (New Iberia, 2020-05-15)

#1116

Band changes lives.

Abby Cronan (Dumfries, 2020-05-15)

#1117

Wilkes and the Arts have always been synonymous. My son, a PhD grad candidate, in Tx, comes back every year to dance in the Nutcracker here, which he’s done since high. Your music, dance and theater programs are in an integral and enticing dew to students thinking of attending Wilkes. The pandemic we are experiencing most certainly illustrates why the arts are important and hofher education institutions need to re-focus on education and not making it a big business. Please reconsider your decision before you lose a large demographic of students considering Wilkes because of its unique blend of Arts and Sciences.

Sharon Firneno (White Haven, 2020-05-15)

#1118

Band isn't just music, it teaches important life lessons that prepare you for the world.

Sam Fleyshman (Aliso Viejo , 2020-05-15)

#1120

Band is a beneficial part of one's life. You make friends, family, fun, memories, learn to be responsible, expand your knowledge into music. Band is important as music is life.

Michael Tran (Panama City Beach, 2020-05-15)

#1121

Because in band is we’re you will meet so people that will change your life and anybody who wants to should have a chance at that.

Sierra Lewis (Fredericksburg , 2020-05-15)

#1123

Band is an important part of millions of kids lives and should not be a experience forcibly taken. I promise the kids in your program have devoted big parts of their lives to grow in such a wonderful activity.

Victoria Meese (Jurupa valley, 2020-05-15)

#1124

Band provides students with an at school family to make friends and have fun. By taking away the band program it gets rid of a group of students passion and maybe even a hobby that they have.

Jordan Case (Indianapolis , 2020-05-15)

#1129

Music is ESSENTIAL to creating people who communicate well, learn well, and enjoy their lives.

Phoebe Chandler (Tacoma, 2020-05-15)

#1132

They shouldn’t cut their music program because for some people band is their escape from the rest of the world and without music all the school events will be less hype and the games will be not as fun

Sierra Carter (Burleson , 2020-05-15)

#1134

The kids deserve to have a band program. For me Band is like a family so by cutting the program you are taking away a family

Dustin Lindley (Lufkin, 2020-05-15)

#1136

Im signing because the band program wherever it is helps people.

Weston Gray (Herriman , 2020-05-15)

#1137

Band is literally the best thing ever and deserves not to die

Josh Spielman (Merced, 2020-05-15)

#1138

Band is always an amazing family and it’s terrible that they would choose to cut it.

Dawson Ly (Pittsburg, 2020-05-15)

#1139

Band is unique and a beautiful way for teens to enjoy life and a wonderful outlet. Also the endurance, dedication, challenge and fellowship band provides are skills needed to perform well in all aspects of life.

Julianna Longo (Aurora, 2020-05-15)

#1141

I'm in band and I dont want to see another music program get cut because i know how it would feel for those kids not to be able to fulfill their passion in music

Riley Gank (Erie,Pa, 2020-05-15)

#1145

I’m signing because music is an important part in everyone’s lives and my personal experience with band is one that I could never be more thankful for. Band shows a person how to be disciplined, rely on those around you, and makes even the most introverted people feel comfortable enough to speak. Music should not be a question as to whether or not to keep it. Everyone listens to music and connects with it in some way. Save the band program.

Rietta Steffen (Hawley, 2020-05-15)

#1148

My daughter takes part and it's a very big part of who she is

Joellen Button (Falls, 2020-05-15)

#1152

Please the band program at the University!!!

Marianne Stoddard (Kunkletown, 2020-05-15)

#1154

I'm signing this because music has impacted my life in so many ways and I know it can impact so many other people's life. Music should be essential and should not be cut. Without band I wouldn't know where I'd be right now. I made so many amazing memories and met the best people there. Because of band I finally was able to find myself and know what I wanted to become in life. I really hope the band program doesn't close down it would be terrible

Noemi Espino (Manteca, 2020-05-16)

#1156

I love music, and I don't want others to miss out on theirs.

Daisy Johnson (Melbourne, 2020-05-16)

#1157

Band is an amazing program and gives kids and teens the opportunity to learn and make friends.

Andrew Baldridge (Jonesboro Arkansas, 2020-05-16)

#1159

The idea of someone thinking they have the authority to take away such a meaningful and impactful time in a students life appals ne

Abby G (Lawrenceville , 2020-05-16)

#1160

Music is way too important! If the cut is because of funding then that’s BS cause most bands already self fund. If it’s because the band is too small then let me apart of the 1,000 people that say otherwise!

Ly Nguyen (Castaic, 2020-05-16)

#1161

I'm in a band and it's great. Keep it

Tyler C (Vancouver, 2020-05-16)

#1162

i know what its like to lose something or someone important, band has made a very big impact in my life and having a program like this taken away is torture, it may just be sounds to some people, but those sounds are people working together to make something beautiful. if people dont understand this, then they have never experienced something as amazing as band

delaney wells (chicago, 2020-05-16)

#1163

Band is an essential part of many people’s lives. It helps people socialize, gain leadership experiences, and learn to work with other people. I can not think of what I would be like had I not joined band, but I would certainly be a different person, and I’m not sure if that person would be able to cope with a lot of the thing that come naturally to me today.

Marissa Kurz (Pittsboro, 2020-05-16)

#1166

Band meant a lot to me and helped me through the rough times in life

Nathan Cosma (San Antonio , 2020-05-16)

#1169

Cutting music programs from schools is a terrible idea always :)

Nicole Verga (Hamburg NJ, 2020-05-16)

#1172

I was a Colonel and enjoyed watching the band play, like many others do. It be a shame to lose such a great program.

Samantha Tizekker (White Haven, 2020-05-16)

#1174

I’m signing because it’s so sad to hear that they decided to cut the band program. I myself am in band in my high school and I know how important it is to people who are in it.

Jose Hernandez (Newark, 2020-05-16)

#1176

I go to some school in Illinois, and I’ve never heard of ANY school that doesn’t have at least some music program. Whoever’s in charge of this school has absolutely no idea what opportunities they’re taking away from their students and how much damage they’re really doing. Band is a career path, and they’re preventing the ones interested in a music career from obtaining the experience and skills to make that happen.

Lol Ok (Prospect Heights , 2020-05-16)

#1177

Wilkes is my alma mater and programs like this are so important!!

Briana Cole (White Haven, 2020-05-16)

#1183

Every single person needs the opportunity to have music classes. It promotes emotional expression. In a world where kids are going through so much stress, kids need ways to express themselves.

William Brown (Troy, 2020-05-16)

#1186

I’m signing because a music program is so important to youth education. Studies show that students with music education do better in math and science classes. I’ve met the most loyal and caring people and teachers through band, and I would never want students to not have that experience.

Natalee Paustian (Yorkville, 2020-05-16)

#1193

Band is the biggest pillars in a musician's everyday life. It's a lifestyle that helps me personally get through my roughest of times. Removing band would deeply affect the new chapter placed to better it

Mike Shen (East stroudsburg , 2020-05-16)

#1195

I’m in band and absolutely love it

Isabella Rodriguez (Trenton, NJ, 2020-05-16)

#1196

It’s a good cause and they should keep the program

Trace Nussbaumer (Wheaton, 2020-05-16)

#1198

i’m signing because i think all schools should be able to experience band and the greatness of music.this school should be no different.

kaitlyn see (louisa, 2020-05-16)

#1199

band is important in my life and i know it is to so many others 🖤

chloe wells (glendale, 2020-05-16)

#1200

band community

Joel Mcchesney (fort wayne in, 2020-05-16)



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