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MILLIGAN COLLEGE, Tenn. (Dec. 20, 2019) — Milligan College Vice President for Athletics and Student Development Mark Fox announced Friday the addition of a drumline beginning fall 2020. With over 15 years of experience with percussion ensembles, Dave Whaley will serve as director.
“We are excited to offer students the opportunity to participate in a drumline at the collegiate level,” said Fox. “This program will provide another creative outlet for our students and strengthen school spirit on campus.”
Milligan’s drumline will enhance students’ musical abilities, develop leadership skills, provide performance opportunities and contribute to the cultural life at Milligan. The drumline will perform at major campus events, including Homecoming, Wonderful Wednesday and athletic events. Members also will serve as ambassadors for the college by performing at various community events.
The ensemble will be open to students across academic disciplines with previous percussion experience. Scholarships will be available to incoming students.
“I’m pleased to welcome Dave to Milligan to lead this inaugural program,” said Fox. “He has a rich history leading percussionists in Northeast Tennessee, and I am excited that he will bring his experience and passion to Milligan.”
Whaley previously served as the percussion director at Dobyns-Bennett High School and John Sevier Middle School for seven years. Whaley is a member of the Johnson City Symphony Orchestra, is affiliated with the Percussive Arts Society and is an Innovative Percussion educational artist. He is a graduate of East Tennessee State University, where he was a member of the marching band, indoor marching percussion ensemble and wind ensemble. Whaley has performed at Carnegie Hall and for several Percussive Arts Society international conventions. He currently serves as music minister at Hunter First Baptist Church.
“Marching in a drumline provides a great opportunity to create music in a setting that forms strong bonds and memories that will last a lifetime,” said Whaley. “A drumline is a great addition to the college’s commitment to the arts and community.”
SCHOLARSHIPS
- Available to first-time traditional undergraduate students beginning in Fall 2020.
- Award amounts vary and are based on the applicant’s ability and the discretion of the director.
- Awards are participation awards and do not require a designated major.
- May NOT be combined with athletic, fine arts, performing arts, Jeanes, Goah, tuition waiver, or personnel grants or scholarships.
- Complete your admission application to Milligan and email admissions to express interest in drumline.
For more information, call 800.262.8337 or email the admissions office at admissions@milligan.edu.