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Rufus Reid, WBGO, others to be honored at William Paterson University’s Annual Legacy Award Gala

Rufus Reid
c/o the artist
Rufus Reid

William Paterson University alumnus James Terrile, partner, Capital Group; Grammy Award-nominated jazz bassist Rufus Reid, former director of William Paterson University’s Jazz Studies Program; late William Paterson Professor Emeritus Martin Krivin, founder of the Jazz Studies Program; and WBGO, which champions jazz to a worldwide audience, will be honored as the William Paterson University Foundation hosts its 32nd Annual Legacy Award Gala on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at The Grove in Cedar Grove, N.J.

Terrile will be honored as Distinguished Alumnus, Reid will receive the Distinguished Faculty/Staff Award, Krivin will receive the Distinguished Service Award, posthumously, and WBGO will be honored as Distinguished Organization. The awards recognize individuals and organizations that demonstrate leadership in the community and are dedicated to the success of students at William Paterson University. This year’s event celebrates the 50th anniversary of William Paterson University’s internationally acclaimed Jazz Studies Program, which was founded in 1973. The evening will include special performances by the William Paterson Jazz Orchestra and special guests including honoree Rufus Reid and Grammy Award-winning pianist Bill Charlap. current director of the Jazz Studies Program.

The Legacy Award Gala is the Foundation’s largest event to raise funds to support the University’s mission of promoting student success and academic excellence through student scholarships. All proceeds from the Gala directly fund academic scholarships at William Paterson University, thereby directly affecting the lives of students—most of whom rely on scholarships to complete their education.

“Jazz Studies is a signature program at William Paterson and has produced many talented musicians and educators while enriching the cultural life of our campus,” says President Richard J. Helldobler, “so I am thrilled that we are able to mark this milestone anniversary by honoring some of the many great people and organizations who have been a part of its success. The Legacy Award Gala is a wonderful opportunity to honor those who have had such a great impact on the University and our local community while celebrating and supporting the next generation of William Paterson students.”

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to celebrate this milestone 50th anniversary of our Jazz Studies Program and to highlight our loyal and supportive alumni, friends, faculty, and community partners,” says Pamela Ferguson, president of the William Paterson University Foundation and vice president for institutional advancement. “On behalf of the entire University community, I thank them for their partnership, leadership, and friendship — and for supporting our students.”

Tickets for the gala begin at $500; tables of 10 can be purchased for $5,000 and $10,000. For ticket reservations, contact the office for special events at 973-720-2478 or visit wpunj.edu/legacy.