top of page
About The Foundation
The Dr. Richard Beckford Foundation was established to honor the life, leadership, and lasting impact of Dr. Richard Beckford, whose dedication to music education and student development shaped generations of young musicians.
​
Rooted in his belief that music is a pathway to discipline, excellence, and opportunity, the foundation exists to ensure that students—particularly those with a passion for band and the performing arts—have access to higher education, mentorship, and exposure to collegiate music programs.
Our Mission
Our Purpose
The foundation is committed to:​
-
Providing scholarships to students pursuing higher education at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other colleges and universities
-
Supporting students with aspirations in band, music, and the performing arts
-
Exposing children and young people to music education at an early age
-
Encouraging academic achievement, leadership, and character through the discipline of music
Continuing the Legacy
Throughout his career, Dr. Beckford understood that band was more than performance—it was preparation for life. He used music as a tool to instill confidence, structure, teamwork, and pride. The foundation continues this mission by creating opportunities that remove financial barriers and open doors for students who may otherwise be overlooked.
Our Impact
Through scholarships, educational initiatives, and community engagement, the Dr. Richard Beckford Foundation works to:
-
Expand access to higher education
-
Inspire the next generation of musicians and leaders
-
Preserve the cultural and educational significance of band programs
-
Strengthen communities through the arts
Looking Forward
The foundation is focused not only on honoring the past, but on building the future. By investing in students today, we ensure that Dr. Beckford’s legacy of mentorship, excellence, and service lives on for generations to come.
bottom of page