AUBURN – Recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Edward Little High School Music/Drama Programs, seniors Jillian Byard and Kathryn Louise Speer have been named Class of 2004 Donald M. Gay Scholarship winners.

Byard, who plans to major in elementary education at Providence College, served as drum major for the band her senior year, as a section leader for four years and as soloist her junior and senior. She received the International Thespian Award and was a participant in the Gifted and Talented Program for the Creative Arts during her junior year. Her award is $2,000.

Speer, who will attend Swarthmore College in Swarthmore, Pa., to pursue a career as a choreographer, will major in dance. She has participated in 16 performances with the Edward Little Playhouse, primarily as choreographer but also a performer. A participant in the Bates College Dance Festival for four years, she served as president of the EL Playhouse as a senior. Her award is for $1,000.

The scholarship honors the man who created what was rated as the best or near-best high school bands and choruses while at Edward Little from 1944 to 1959. Gay, at 90, continues his interest in music and the scholarship program while living in the Aroostook County community of Linneus.

The scholarship was established by the Edward Little Class of 1951 and is open to graduates of Edward Little. Contributions from individuals, foundations or corporations are encouraged and welcome. They may be sent to the law firm of Crockett, Philbrook and Crouch, Attn: M.W. Philbrook at 178 Court St., Auburn.


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