Impact Spotlight: Calvin Edouard Ward

C. Edouard Ward ’49, ’50 MMus (1925–2018) shaped the careers of young musicians through his work as a music educator, concert pianist, and music theorist. Beyond his lifetime, he continues to make an impact on aspiring musicians. Through a bequest in his trust, Ward provided funds to establish the Dr. C.E. Ward Undergraduate Merit-Aid Scholarship, which will support students in Northwestern’s Bienen School of Music.

Ward’s interest in music blossomed at an early age. He began formal piano studies at the age of four. Years later, he was performing in churches and other venues throughout his hometown of Atlanta. In the late 1940s, Ward enrolled at Northwestern to study music and, ultimately, earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He went on to have a long and distinguished career, lecturing and performing across the US and abroad. Ward held positions at the Tuskegee Institute, Florida A&M University, and the Peabody Conservatory of Music; earned three Fulbright Fellowships; and retired as a music specialist for the Trenton Public School District in New Jersey in 1995.

The scholarship in Ward’s name—which will be awarded in perpetuity—will support undergraduate music students who have demonstrated outstanding musical talent. It serves as a lasting legacy at Northwestern in Ward’s honor and guarantees that his impact on music education continues well beyond his lifetime.

Like C. Edouard Ward, you can help students take the first steps on the road to success. Contact Northwestern Gift Planning at 800-826-6709 or giftplanning@northwestern.edu.