Lipscomb Academy Receives Significant Charitable Gifts to Renovate Music Wing

Two new charitable donations benefiting the Fine Arts music program have been gifted to Lipscomb Academy. The Vultee Charitable Foundation generously pledged $125,000 in honor of Fine Arts Director Robert King, who has devoted 41 years to music education at Lipscomb Academy, and his wife, Donna King, a longtime music professor at Lipscomb University. The Nunley-Dennison-Kittrell Endowed Fund also donated a noteworthy gift with $25,000 designated to benefit a music wing renovation.

“In life, it is important for individuals to develop a degree of independence. Equally important is learning to collaborate with others to achieve outcomes that are only possible through teamwork. This concept is well-recognized in athletics, but perhaps its value is less appreciated in the arts,” stated Roy Burch, Vultee Charitable Foundation board member. “I love the emphasis that musical and dramatic ensembles are receiving at the academy. A tradition of excellence is already well established thanks in part to Robert King and other dedicated faculty.”

“Ruth and I, as well as our children, have directly benefited from the excellence in the music department. I know that Roy Burch and his children have also been a part of Lipscomb Academy’s wonderful heritage of music,” stated Philip Henry, Vultee Charitable Foundation board member. “Robert and Donna King have been at the forefront of that pursuit of excellence for so many years. The Vultee Foundation is pleased to honor them for their dedication to Lipscomb. We are delighted generations to come will benefit from the improvements being planned.” 

"My wife, Jane Dennison Kittrell, graduated from Lipscomb Academy in 1972, and now we have four grandchildren at the academy. My mother-in-law, Jean Nunley Dennison, moved to Nashville in the 1940s to attend Lipscomb, and Jane and I can think of no better investment than Fine Arts at Lipscomb Academy to give future generations a well-rounded education and view of the world,” stated Marty Kittrell, former Lipscomb Board of Trustee. “We appreciate Robert King's 41 years of service building the Fine Arts at the academy, and our five-generation Lipscomb family is pleased to be able to provide this support!”

With the assistance of these funds, Lipscomb Academy announces the intention to undergo a $300,000 renovation of the music wing on the upper campus. Pending the successful completion of fundraising efforts, renovation is scheduled to begin in summer 2025. This initiative will enhance the spaces allocated to choral, orchestra, and band programs with the goal of completing construction in time for the start of the 2025-26 academic year. A dedicated space within the music wing will be named to honor Robert and Donna King.
“Of course, we are humbled at the idea of honoring our time here. This is where our children attended, and this community has been an extension of our home for over four decades. It has been and remains a privilege to partner with Lipscomb Academy to pursue excellence in fine arts education,” said Robert King, director of fine arts.

The music wing renovation reflects the academy’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional facilities that nurture the creativity and talent of students. To further support this initiative, the music wing renovation will serve as the focus for Fine Arts on Giving Day 2025. The community is invited to join in this endeavor to elevate the Fine Arts program and create a lasting legacy for future generations of students.

“Lipscomb has always been a place that seeks continual improvement. We have seen significant enhancements and additions to our campus over the years, most recently in athletics, academics, and the theatrical arts. Making our music ensemble spaces reflect the commitment that already exists in the school is a logical next step, honoring the dedication our students and directors show daily,” stated King.

“I am inspired by the ripple effect of one generous gift sparking another. What a testament to the shared passion and enthusiasm for the arts within our community. This momentum is something we are eager to sustain and build upon,” stated Brad Schultz, Lipscomb Academy Head of School.

If you want to join in this endeavor to elevate the Fine Arts program and create a lasting legacy for future generations of students at Lipscomb Academy, please connect with director of advancement Eric Adams, (615) 975-5103.