 The 3D multi-layer miniature wood shadowbox ornament (left); Marlon Foster (right). Today, the Marching Royal Dukes Alumni is honored to announce a donation of $3,348.39 to the Marlon Foster ('82, '95) Memorial Scholarship Endowment Endeavor for Music Education, contributing to the $50,000 needed to bring the fund to full endowment — a milestone reached in under one year through the collective generosity of the JMU community. The donation was raised through the MRD Alumni’s first-ever commemorative ornament, which sold out during MRD Alumni Band Weekend, coinciding with another profound moment: Marlon Foster was posthumously awarded the Outstanding Music Educator Award at the 2025 Virginia Music Educators Association conference's JMU VMEA Music Awards. This award is presented to a music educator who exemplifies JMU’s commitment to musicianship, pedagogy, professional leadership, and lasting dedication to music education. Marlon embodied these values throughout a life defined by service, mentorship, and joy.  Laura Mulligan Thomas, a JMU School of Music faculty member, shares Marlon's posthumous award with Cheryl Foster. A gifted educator with a “father’s heart,” Marlon taught in the Harrisonburg City Public Schools for 26 years and influenced countless students as adjunct faculty at James Madison University, Shenandoah University, Eastern Mennonite University, and Bridgewater College. His career also included distinguished service in the United States Air Force Tactical Air Command Band, as well as decades of performing, composing, conducting, mentoring, and inspiring musicians across Virginia. Known for his welcoming smile, endearing laugh, and uncanny ability to remember every student’s name, Marlon lived a life anchored in faith, music, family, and community. His deep love of jazz, devotion to percussion, and passion for helping young musicians flourish made him a beloved and irreplaceable presence. “Seeing the scholarship reach endowment on the very weekend Marlon was honored by JMU feels profoundly fitting,” said Dan Everard, President of the MRD Alumni. “It shows just how deeply he touched this community — and how committed we are to ensuring his legacy lives on.” “This ornament project began as a tribute — but it became a movement,” said Chase Maszle, MRD Alumni Vice President. “Every alumnus who purchased one helped secure a legacy that will support students for generations. This was a community effort in the truest sense.”  MRD Alumni Vice President Chase Maszle speaks at the indoor "tailgate," encouraging attendees to lead with the warmth and kindness that defined Marlon Foster’s impact on his students. The MRD Alumni extends heartfelt thanks to every supporter of the fundraiser; to Cheryl and the entire Foster family; Chase Maszle, Dan and Cyndi Everard, Amanda Brock Robson, and the MRD Alumni Leadership team; John Allemeier, Laura Mulligan Thomas, and Scott Rikkers of the JMU School of Music; Rebekah Noonan and Laura Mulli of University Advancement; Paula Polglase and Erin Conley of the JMU Alumni Association; Garrett King of the JMU Foundation; K. Coffman; and the talented design and production crew at Tim Weberding Woodworking.
For more information on how to contribute a tax-deducible gift to the Marlon Foster Memorial Scholarship Endowment Endeavor for Music Education, please visit JMU's giving portal. |
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