Southeast’s Band Instrument Repair Program Receives First Endowed Scholarship

Red Wing, MN (November 25, 2025) – For the first time in its 50-year history, the Band Instrument Repair program at Minnesota State College Southeast has an endowed scholarship, thanks to the generosity of one of its graduates.

The Keith P. and Dawn L. Parker Scholarship Fund was established through a generous $25,000 legacy gift from Keith and Dawn Parker, to support students interested in careers in band instrument repair.

Dawn Parker, a graduate of Arizona State University's Music Education program, dedicated 30 years to teaching band. Her passion for music extended beyond the classroom. When her school district hired a band instrument repair technician, Dawn became intrigued by the craft and envisioned it as an encore career after retirement.

In 2016, Dawn enrolled in the Band Instrument Repair program at what was then Southeast Technical College in Red Wing, Minnesota. She lived just across the street from the college at the time. Dawn credits instructors John Huth and Greg Beckwith for their exceptional guidance. She graduated with her diploma in Band Instrument Repair in 2017.

Keith Parker, a graduate of Appalachian State University, relocated to Arizona where he spent his professional life as an industrial technology teacher. He also played a vital role in supporting local marching bands, serving as their equipment manager.

The Parkers, who each spent more than 30 years as teachers before retiring, said they established the scholarship to provide band instrument repair students with access to financial assistance.

"We deeply believe in the power of education. Life-long learning is a critical component of a full and rewarding life, and we believe finding a career that is an avocation rather than just a vocation adds to a person's happiness," Dawn said. "My experience in the Band Instrument Repair Program was incredibly challenging and rewarding. I want others to experience the joy and satisfaction of learning the craft of band instrument repair."

Investment earnings from the endowment will fund annual scholarships for band instrument repair students. Preference will be given to adult learners aged 25 or older who demonstrate financial need.

"We appreciate the generosity of Keith and Dawn in creating this endowment, the first to support one of Southeast's largest programs," said Michelle Dingwall, Executive Director of Foundation and Development at Minnesota State College Southeast. "It is even more special to know a Band Instrument Repair alumna has chosen to support future students in the program."

"We are proud to have Dawn as a graduate," said Band Instrument Repair instructor John Campfield-Huth. "As a student, Dawn inspired others through her continual display of persistence and dedication. Through this scholarship, she will continue to inspire and support students pursuing their passion."

Southeast's Band Instrument Repair program is an internationally renowned two-semester comprehensive degree program that teaches students the fundamentals of repairing clarinets, trumpets, flutes, trombones, saxophones, French horns, oboes, bassoons, and large brass. Students learn how to fabricate tools and instrument parts using lathes, drill presses, sanders, and bench motors.

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Photo caption: Dawn and Keith Parker