On May 19th over 175 alumni, guests and friends returned to campus for beloved music professor Gordon Spice's retirement party. Gordon began his illustrious career at W&L in 1973. He taught music history and appreciation, voice, and conducted the Glee Club, the University Chorus and the Chamber Singers in wonderful concerts for the W&L community. He also gave time and talent to the area as the first conductor of the Rockbridge Choral Society and the Rockbridge Community Opera. 
A superb program for this special gathering was crafted by Music Professor Tim Gaylard. Roger Day '85 was emcee for the main event and helped direct a number of performances by different alumni singing groups and soloists. The robust and emotional ‘W&L Alumni Chorus’ sang some crowd favorites, including the famed 'unofficial' school song: "Shenandoah." The program also included an inspiring video presentation, "Going Down Memory Lane," produced by Graham Spice '84, Gordon's son.
To honor “Doc” Spice and his rich legacy, the Gordon P. Spice Endowment Fund for Music has been established by many appreciative alumni who benefitted from his training, friendship and support during his thirty-nine year tenure at W&L. This permanently endowed fund will allow the Music Department to underwrite a variety of activities over time to enrich its educational mission, including the ability to enhanced the student musical experience through travel. Bravo and Godspeed Dr. Spice!!
