Washington College Magazine
100-Voice Choir Raises Money And Spirits
A choir of 100 voices gathered to celebrate the life and the example of Washington College alumnus Vincent Hynson '87 and the new scholarship established in his honor.
"We're having a little concert here tonight, not church," said Rev. Clarence Hawkins, a retired pastor from Rock Hall who served as master of ceremonies. "But if you feel in the spirit, move in the spirit," he added to rousing applause. "We've come to reflect on Rev. Vincent Hynson, a graduate of this institution, and a friend and neighbor to all men."
As guest director, the Reverend Shonda Greene leads the 100-Voice Gospel Choir in a musical tribute to the late Vincent Hynson.
President Baird Tipson announced the creation of the new scholarship fund for local minority students last February at Washington's Birthday Convocation. To kick-start the scholarship fund, Tipson personally committed $10,000 per year of his annual salary.
Named in honor of the late Rev. Vincent Hynson— who died August 14, 2004 of cancer at the age of 49—the first scholarship will be offered in the fall of 2006 to an entering freshman who is a graduate of a secondary school in Kent County, demonstrates financial need, and whose achievements and aspirations most closely emulate the values of Hynson. The native Chestertonian led an exemplary life as a teacher, coach, pastor and leader in the Kent County community.
"Although I am reluctant to promote my role in this," Tipson said, "I think we all must do our part to direct resources to those in need and to create positive relationships among all members of our community."
The 100-Voice Choir was organized by Bill and Sylvia Frazier of Chestertown, longtime friends of Hynson who wanted to raise awareness and support for the scholarship. Putting together a choir of 100 voices and musicians was a colossal task, but in the end "the spirit" was with Washington College and the Kent County community. The event raised $8,000 through ticket sales and program sponsorships, while uniting a community often divided by racial and economic lines.
Tipson, who lent his voice to the tenor section of the choir, remains committed to these efforts to build bridges between Kent County's diverse communities.
"We are a relatively privileged institution in a relatively poor county; we don't pay taxes," he said. "So what kind of obligation do we have to the community, particularly for those who are marginalized and feel left out of the economic boom? It seems to me that if we can get folks who ordinarily don't think of Washington College to think of us, and make it economically possible to attend, we should be taking every step to do it."
To be considered for the Vincent Hynson Scholarship, students should submit a scholarship essay and complete all admissions and financial aid application requirements no later than February 15, 2006. Essay instructions and admissions and financial aid information are available from the Office of Admissions.
300 Washington Avenue, Chestertown, Maryland 21620 | 410-778-2800 | 800-422-1782