Founding member endows fund for symphony
As the Starkville-Mississippi State University Symphony tunes up for its 43rd season, the association will benefit from the financial contribution of a founding member.
David Cornell, association board member emeritus, and his wife, Barbara, are continuing their lifelong appreciation of music by establishing an endowment for the symphony.
The origins of the Starkville-MSU Symphony date back to 1969, when the association was established in the Cornells' Starkville residence. The symphony held the premier concert later that year.
"The Cornells were instrumental in the creation of the symphony association. Since that time, Starkville has held the distinction of being the smallest community in the United States to support a symphony orchestra," said Robert Phillips, president.
Phillips continued, "The Cornells' generous gift will enable us to continue the work of the association featuring the Symphony Orchestra, the Symphony Chorus and wonderful programs for children."
David Cornell is professor emeritus of chemical engineering at Mississippi State, having served as a faculty member from 1961 until his retirement in 1986. He and Barbara currently reside in Norwalk, Ohio.
The David and Barbara Cornell Founders Endowed Fund is open for additional contributions through the MSU Foundation. Earnings from the endowment will support symphony association activities.
For upcoming symphony performance information, visit www.starkvillemsusymphony.org.
Allison Matthews | University Relations
