Idaho State Establishes the Dr. Randy Earles Legacy Scholarship Endowment in a Heartfelt Celebration

December 8, 2023, Idaho State University faculty, alumni, and friends gathered to honor the legacy of Dr. Randy Earles, an exceptional figure renowned in the community for his contributions to music education.

The event was held to commemorate the establishment of the Dr. Randy Earles Legacy Scholarship Endowment, which will provide scholarships to students in the Department of Music at ISU. 

"Endowments allow us to support our students, our number one priority at ISU,” Dr. Turley Ames, Dean of the College of Arts and Letters, said. "This endowment symbolizes our deep respect for Dr. Earles' exceptional contributions to the realm of music and his steadfast commitment to his students. Through this scholarship, our Department of Music will continue to nurture and empower music students, carrying forward Dr. Earles’ impact for generations to come."

Dr. Randy A. Earles, an Emeritus Faculty member, former Department Chair, and Associate Dean for the College of Arts and Letters, held the position of Professor of Music during his tenure at Idaho State. Joining the ISU faculty in 1991 until his retirement in the summer of 2019, Dr. Earles contributed significantly to the University's musical culture.

Throughout his career, Dr. Earles shared his musical talent as a trumpeter, performing with prestigious orchestras like the Houston Symphony Orchestra, the Houston Pops Orchestra, and several symphonies across Idaho. His compositions, such as "Sing the World Together" and "Idaho Celebration," have been featured in international choral festivals and commissioned by the Idaho State Department of Education.

During the celebration, memories were shared by colleagues and friends, reflecting on the profound impact Dr. Earles had on their lives. 

Dr. Thom Hasenpflug, Professor of Music at ISU, recollected the pivotal role Dr. Earles played in shaping his career. Dr. Diana Livingston Friedley, also a Professor of Music at ISU, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for Dr. Earles' guidance and invaluable life lessons.

Jim Johnston recalled their time together at the Rotary Club, remembering how Randy played the piano while he was conductor. “Music was never better in the Gate City Rotary Club than when Randy was playing,” Johnson said. “What a fine legacy you have left in this community and you are deeply missed. ISU is outstanding and it’s continuing to get better after your great contributions.”

Jean Kennedy, ISU music alumna, shared how much of an impact Earles had on her as a student. She now teaches college students herself. “You’ve left an impact on my life as a teacher and as an educator,” she shared. “I appreciated your expertise. When you were advising me you were so kind and generous.”

In a touching moment, Dean Turley Ames acknowledged Dr. Earles' significant contributions to ISU saying, "The College of Arts and Letters would not be what it is today if we had not had you. You are very loved. You gave so much of your life to us at ISU."

"My time at Idaho State was the best, especially the people," said Dr. Earles, visibly moved. "I am struck by the generosity of these people for creating this endowment. From the bottom of my heart, thank you."

For more information about the Randy Earles Scholarship Endowment, or endowments in general, please contact Tabitha La Force, Philanthropic Advisor for the College of Arts and Letters at  208-282-1404,  tabithalaforce@isu.edu.