Andrews University has announced the creation of the Stephen Zork Endowed Chair of Choral Music, the first endowed faculty chair ever established within the school’s music department.
The new position honors Stephen Zork, the university’s longtime director of choral studies, who is preparing to retire after nearly 35 years of service. The endowed chair will support a permanent faculty role dedicated to leading the university’s choral program and continuing its tradition of vocal performance and music education.
University officials say the effort has already raised about $1.52 million toward a $2 million goal to fully fund the endowment.
Department leaders say the chair represents both a lasting tribute to Zork’s influence and a long-term commitment to choral music at the Berrien Springs campus.
Zork has directed and mentored generations of students during his tenure at Andrews, helping shape the university’s choral program and preparing graduates who now teach and perform in churches, schools and music programs around the world.
Once fully funded, the endowment will permanently support the leadership of the university’s choral program and ensure continued instruction and performance opportunities for future students.
A Celebration Reunion Choir Concert honoring Zork is planned April 24–25 at the Howard Performing Arts Center on the Andrews campus.
Founded in 1874, Andrews University is the flagship institution of higher education for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, with its main campus located in Berrien Springs.
