The Peggy and Lawrence West Foundation donated $100,000 to the Cumberland University Phoenix Marching Band. This gift will be used toward band operations as part of the Ignite the Vision major gifts initiative, a strategic program focusing on enhancing CU students collegiate experience. 

Leading this initiative is Jacqueline Cowden, daughter of Peggy and Lawrence West, CU alum and current Board of Trust member.  

“The West Foundation’s remarkable generosity will have a lasting impact on the band program here at CU. We are incredibly grateful for this gift,” said Wayne Ray, Director of Athletic Bands. “We hope that in the future, as our band program and university flourishes, the West Foundation will celebrate with us and know that they are a part of our story. They’ve absolutely ignited the vision of this university and we couldn’t be more excited for what is to come.”

The Wests have been actively involved in the CU community for decades and have contributed to many CU projects, including their founding of the Cumberland Scholarship Program in 1973, the building of Vice Library and many other initiatives.

The foundation is also actively involved with United Way of Wilson County, CASA of Wilson County, Don Fox Community Park, Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee, Homesafe, Monroe Carell Jr. Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, Montgomery Bell Academy, Sumner Academy, Vanderbilt Bridge Club Education Center and many more.

“The generous contributions that the West family have given over the years have made a huge impact on the CU community, and this donation is no different,” said Scott Lawrence, Vice President of Advancement. “This donation will allow the Phoenix Marching Band to continue to provide an enriching experience for band members and promote Phoenix pride all over campus. We are excited to see how this great contribution will lead to the success of the Ignite the Vision initiative.” 

For more information about the Ignite the Vision initiative, visit http://www.cumberland.edu/ignitethevision/ .