The John E. N. and Adelia Howard Music Matters Challenge
John E. N. and Adelia Howard have a special place in their hearts for music. As the former director of the band program for St. Joseph Public Schools and as the 40-year director of the St. Joseph Municipal Band program, Mr. Howard, and his wife Adelia, understand how music can define our culture, enrich our lives, define our time, as well as the times of our lives.

They also know that for many, music matters in personal terms because it is an aspiration, a career path, an educational experience, and much more.

To demonstrate their belief in the future of the Lake Michigan College music program, and the fundamental value of music to our community, John and Dede Howard have issued a $100,000 challenge. To realize their challenge, the Music Matters fundraising effort must secure $425,000 in additional gifts, pledges, gifts-in-kind and/or other funds for the purchase of musical instruments and scholarships for Lake Michigan College music students.

Mr. and Mrs. Howard's pledge will be used to construct a suite of practice rooms for use by vocal and instrumental music students. Their gift will increase the total number of practice rooms from two to eight.

The challenge put forward by Mr. and Mrs. Howard is the most significant ever for the Lake Michigan College Music Program. Their generosity will directly impact the quality of the College's Music Program, and challenges all of us to embrace the value of a quality music program and its importance to you and each Lake Michigan College student.