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Sims, Karen and Edward Endowed Scholarship in Music Education

The Karen and Edward Sims Endowed Scholarship in Music Education was established in April 2023 by Edward Sims '88 in loving memory of his wife, Karen, who passed away in December 2021, and in support of music students at The University of Akron, where he earned a master's degree in music education.

Karen and Edward, both of Rootstown, Ohio, met in high school and began dating during their junior year. The high school sweethearts graduated in 1969 and married in 1973, spending more than 48 wonderful years together prior to Karen's passing.

In the nearly five decades the couple shared, music always played a significant role. Edward spent 46 years in music education and retired from Rittman Schools in 2021 after 37 years, having taught marching band, concert band, pep band, jazz band, steel drum band, and middle school band, as well as courses in music theory. Although retired, he continues to serve Rittman High School as a ¹ú²úÂ×Àí adjunct professor, teaching a College Credit Plus course in music history. Karen, who shared Ed's passion for music, was also a voracious reader, loved to travel, and enjoyed local theater and concerts. She retired in 2016 as office manager of the Ewart-Ohlson Machine Company in Cuyahoga Falls, where she worked for 37 years.

In establishing this scholarship, Edward wishes foremost to honor his wife, who was his inspiration and whose love and encouragement contributed immensely to his success. Edward also seeks to support students pursuing careers in music education. He and Karen always believed that the benefits of music education extended far beyond the classroom, helping students learn important personal and life skills that contribute to their future success.

This endowed scholarship is being established as part of The University of Akron's We Rise Together Campaign.

The Karen and Edward Sims Endowed Scholarship in Music Education assists full- or part-time students at The University of Akron, with a preference for graduates of Rittman High school. To be eligible for consideration, students must:

• Be in good academic standing with the University,
• Be pursuing a degree in music education, and
• Have demonstrated financial need.

The scholarship covers tuition and fees and may be renewed for students who reapply and continue to meet all criteria. Eligible candidates will be identified and selected by the University Scholarship Committee in the Office of Student Financial Aid.

To make a tax-deductible gift to this scholarship, please visit ¹ú²úÂ×Àí’s . Select “A different designation” from the drop-down menu and enter “Sims Music Scholarship” in the text box. Thank you!