It has been over 15 months since we lost William Ellington Strayhorn, Vice President of Billy Strayhorn Songs Inc. (BSSI). For over a decade, Bill leveraged his specialized knowledge of contract language and development to support BSSI’s mission to promote the legacy of his namesake: William Thomas Strayhorn (aka Uncle Bill). In recognition, the shareholders of BSSI want to express our appreciation and gratitude for Bill’s invaluable body of professional contributions throughout his tenure as a board member and Vice President of BSSI. Well done and thank you William Ellington Strayhorn.
One of the things the Billy Strayhorn Foundation prides itself on is the ability to financially assist our student/musicians along the path of education and wherever it takes them with their future endeavors. We would like to share this article with you from the University of Pittsburgh Legacy newsletter, highlighting Gregory and Thelma Morris. Dr. Morris is the nephew of Billy Strayhorn and the original executor of the Strayhorn estate since his passing in 1967. This inspirational story of the importance of giving back to others to achieve their educational goals was handed “up” to Dr. Morris by his uncle, mentor and the man who helped so many realize their academic aspirations with just a little financial assistance along the way…Billy Strayhorn.
The Billy Strayhorn Foundation will continue its mission of jazz education scholarship assistance, and honorably follow the path of educational upliftment set by Dr. Morris, Thelma Morris, and our legendary figure, Billy Strayhorn.
https://www.giveto.pitt.edu/s/1729/2-pittsburgh/interior.aspx?sid=1729&gid=2&pgid=7226
(Photo: University of Pittsburgh alumni Greg and Thelma Morris)
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