In his 25-year career at the University of Maryland School of Music, Chris Vadala touched the lives of countless students, colleagues and audiences. Under his direction, the Jazz Studies Program grew from two ensembles to comprehensive course offerings that now include both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, three big-band jazz ensembles, four chamber jazz combos and courses in jazz history and theory. Professor Vadala’s innovation of a combined jazz and music education bachelor’s degree has given students the opportunity to expand their teaching credentials and employment opportunities. Many of his students found in him not only a teacher and mentor, but also a friend. His legacy has the potential to live on in the creation of the Chris Vadala Endowed Scholarship for Jazz, which will provide merit-based scholarships to future students studying jazz in the School of Music. Once funds in the account reach a certain level, the fund will be endowed. Thank you for your gift to support student scholarships in honor of our friend Chris.