Gift to Hastings College Made in Dr. Jensen’s Name

In July 2010, an anonymous donor gave Hastings College a $500,000 donation, of which the majority is to endow a Distinguised Professorship in Music in honor of Dr. Byron Jensen, Conductor and Artistic Director of the Hastings Symphony Orchestra and Professor of Music at Hastings College.  According to Dr. Phillip Dudley, President of Hastings College, “The donor approached the college asking for an opportunity to honor Dr. Jensen, a fact that speaks volumes about the quality of our music program and Dr. Jensen’s contributions to the campus and community.  Byron will be the first faculty member named to the professorship given in his honor.”

This announcement came as a surprise to Dr. Jensen upon his return from his family vacation this summer.  Dr. Robin Koozer, chair of the HC music department told Jensen about the gift.  After the initial shock, Jensen realized how appreciated he is in the community.  “I am greatly honored and deeply touched by the donor’s generosity,” he said.  “Whoever this donor is has placed a lot of trust in what I bring to Hastings and Hastings College in respect to my life as a musician, conductor, educator, advocate for the arts and probably most important, my devotion to my wife and family.”

Congratulations to Dr. Byron Jensen on this fine honor!