Gary and Rosemary McKnight Endowment Fund to Support and Grow FHU Music Program
HENDERSON, Tenn. – Although officially retired from Freed-Hardeman University, Dr. Gary McKnight takes comfort in knowing that his family’s legacy will continue to shape a program that is close to his heart. The newly established Gary and Rosemary McKnight Endowment Fund for Music will provide vital resources to support and expand the FHU Music Program.
Dr. Gary and Rosemary McKnight
With the unwavering support of his wife, Rosemary, Gary McKnight dedicated more than 30 years to teaching, directing and mentoring students in the FHU Music Program before retiring in 2024. Former colleagues launched this endowment both as a tribute to the McKnights’ decades of service and as an opportunity for grateful alumni to invest in the program’s continued growth.
“Gary has been the face of the music program for many years,” said Dr. Alan Kinningham, associate professor of music and program coordinator. “Together, he and Rosemary have profoundly impacted generations of students—welcoming them into their home, caring for them and making them part of both their personal family and the FHU extended family. I don’t know that words can describe everything that they have done to positively influence the lives of their students, both on and beyond campus.”
Designed to provide financial support for the FHU Music Program, the endowment will fund important resources beyond the university’s standard budget. Annual grants will support areas such as technology, research, multimedia, travel, enrichment services, capital improvements and scholarships to recruit and retain vocal music majors.
“It is very humbling to think someone would want an endowment fund in our names to be included with all of those who have helped students throughout the years,” Gary McKnight said. “Rosemary and I are excited that there will be another source of help for the music program and its students. It will give the opportunity for other students to experience that special magic that has been part of the choral music program for decades at FHU.”
Looking ahead, McKnight is eager to see the program continue to flourish, including potential new facilities and the pursuit of accreditation as an official Department of Music. “I feel there are alumni and friends of the university who are just waiting for this kind of opportunity to help the future Department of Music,” he shared. “The opportunity is here, the time is right, and we are glad we can be a part of it.”
Those wishing to contribute to the Gary and Rosemary McKnight Endowment Fund for Music can visit fhu.edu/mcknight-endowment to make a donation. Personalized gifts may also be made in memory or honor of a loved one.
The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees. More information is available at fhu.edu.
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