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Mountain Streams Music Celebration to recognize former professors posthumously

During the upcoming Mountain Streams Music Celebration on Saturday, October 26, at WVU Potomac State College, former music professors will be recognized posthumously for their musical contributions to WVU Potomac State College, the community, and beyond.

Richard Davis, a former music professor

Richard Davis began his distinguished career in music education in 1963 at Potomac State College, after earning his master’s degree in music theory and composition from West Virginia University. For Professor Davis, who served as professor of music for 39 years, music was more than just a profession—it was his passion. He directed the Potomac State Singers, later known as the Potomac State College Community Chorus and led various local choruses for ecumenical church services in the area. As a dedicated member of Grace United Methodist Church, Professor Davis directed the chancel choir for more than 20 years. He also enjoyed writing and composing several short works of literature.

Dr. Philip Faini, a former music professor

By the age of 16, Dr. Philip Faini was already excelling as a drummer, playing regularly with dance bands in Pennsylvania. He was often featured on radio shows, which led to him being recruited by the 4th Army Band in San Antonio, Texas. He often performed in official ceremonies, including one for President Dwight D. Eisenhower. At Potomac State College, Dr. Faini established the college’s first marching band before transitioning to WVU’s Morgantown campus, where he became a professor and later Dean of the College of Creative Arts. Dr. Faini mentored hundreds of students who went on to excel in music, from sold-out concerts to international performances. His legacy includes original compositions and arrangements for percussion ensembles that remain in demand today.

Dr. John Hawkins, a former music professor

Dr. John Hawkins began his career at Potomac State College in 1979, dedicating 34 years to the institution before his retirement. A gifted pianist, he performed with the Potomac State Jazz Singers and the Potomac State College Community Band. He was loved by colleagues and students alike, with students often naming him as their favorite professor. He was a mentor to many, leaving them encouraged and inspired to continue their educational journey. His passion for musicals led him to produce and musically direct numerous large-scale productions, including Cats, Footloose, and Jesus Christ Superstar, among others. Dr. Hawkins also composed the original score for McNeill’s Rangers, which was first performed by the Apple Alley Players and later by Dr. Hawkins, his final production

Dr. Travis Stimeling, a former music professor

Dr. Travis Stimeling, a professor at WVU Morgantown, was instrumental in creating minors in Appalachian Music and Appalachian Studies. Throughout his career, he mentored thousands of students and colleagues. In addition to teaching, Dr. Stimeling was a prolific musician, producer, musicologist, and scholar, with more than ten books and numerous articles to his name. His proudest achievement was founding the WVU Bluegrass & Old-Time Ensemble in 2014, highlighting the significance of Appalachian music. Dr. Stimeling was also a beloved figure in the old-time, bluegrass, and country music scenes in Morgantown.

Dr. Charles D. Whitehill, a former music professor

Dr. Charles D. Whitehill joined Potomac State College in 1961 as the director of the ROTC, stage, marching, and concert bands. He served as chair of the music department from 1972 to 1975, and later as chair of the Division of Arts and Humanities until 1988. Dr. Whitehill founded and directed both the Potomac State Community Jazz Ensemble and the Potomac State College Community Band. He was named Outstanding Professor of the Year for 1993 and 1996, and received the prestigious honor of having his name added to the Duke Anthony Whitmore/Henry Louis Gates Jr. Academic Achievement Wall in 2013. Even after his retirement, Dr. Whitehill continued to play trumpet, compose original music, and mentor students. His contributions to music and education extended beyond the college, particularly through his involvement with the Mineral County Jazz Festival and his leadership of Highland Arts Unlimited, where he served as president for several years.

WVU Potomac State College and Mountain Streams Radio hopes you will join us, not only for an evening filled with the rich sounds of old-time Appalachian and traditional American music, but to also celebrate and remember these outstanding musicians who paved the way for current musicians and professors who are now influencing today’s youth.

The Mountain Streams Music Celebration will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Church-McKee Arts Center Auditorium, located on the WVU Potomac State College campus.

For more information, to purchase tickets, or become a sponsor, visit www.potomacstatecollege.edu