Siblings are known to disagree at times, but the DeLoache brothers and sisters can all agree on one thing: music has had a positive effect on their lives.

So much so that, in 1988, they came together to pay that gift forward. Mary DeLoache Jennings, Wyatte DeLoache Jr., AS74, Abigail DeLoache, EHD77 and Timothy DeLoache, EOE83, pooled their annual gifts to create the DeLoache Music Award in 1988. The scholarship is given annually to a deserving member of the University of Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hen Marching Band. Originally set up in memory of their mother, June, and in honor of former UD music professor Robert Streckfuss, the siblings wanted to offer their financial support for the next generation of musicians. 

With the 35th anniversary of the scholarship’s founding approaching, Mary DeLoache Jennings – who oversees the fund on her family's behalf – talks about establishing the award and its incredible impact over three decades. 

What inspired your family to establish this scholarship?

Jennings: Music always played a large role in our household. Our dad was a very fine singer and involved in musical theater. Our mom wasn’t a performer, but music gave her so much joy. The scholarship was a result of a conversation among the four of us. We wanted to honor the memory of our mom and the positive effect a music teacher had on us. After our father passed away, the award served as a tribute to both of our parents.  

One of the other motivations for the award was our admiration for Robert Streckfuss. He was our high school band director at Alexis I. du Pont High School in Greenville, DE. Soon after we graduated, he came to the University as a music professor and UD Marching Band director. I was the only one of my siblings who did not attend UD, but the other three were lucky enough to have him twice. He inspired me to become a music teacher, and his influence on me has lasted all my life.

When you’ve spoken with award recipients, what was it like to hear how the scholarship has made a difference for them?

Jennings: I’ve been able to meet the award recipients a few times, and it validated our purpose for creating the award. They’re wonderful students and human beings. We like to see students giving their talents back to the program as we give back to help them succeed. 

What I particularly enjoy is the variety of majors and backgrounds represented. The award recipients must have a 3.0 GPA and be an active UD Marching Band member – the student doesn’t have to be a music major. Many scholarships are given to students who truly excel in multiple areas, but some students may not be able to achieve this depending on their situation. Maybe it’s that third clarinet player that always stays after rehearsal to help out that should be recognized. I truly believe that it’s one of the strengths of this award. 

Why do you feel it’s important to support the next generation of Blue Hens?

Jennings: We all feel that marching band is crucial for musical, social and emotional growth, and anyone is encouraged to participate. Both of my brothers met their future wives in the UD Marching Band. The University’s music department is amazing, and we have a vested interest in the department’s future and the lives of the students who receive this award. For us, it’s the personal, human aspect that’s most important. We can’t always be superior at everything we do, but we can share our love for music.

What would you say to others who may be considering ways to pay tribute to a loved one or celebrate the positive impact of a teacher?

Jennings: I want to stress that we are four regular people that write a check each year for this scholarship. If you have an opportunity to do something in recognition of an experience you had, you can help someone else have that same experience. 

I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention Heidi Sarver, music professor and director of the UD Marching Band and Symphonic Band, who has been incredibly supportive of this scholarship and our family over the years. Her total dedication to the UD Marching Band and the University is unsurpassed. Her leadership is integral to the ongoing success of this award.

To learn more about supporting the Fightin’ Blue Hens Marching Band, click here.