Shig Akagi Education Fund

What I’m Doing Now

I plan to teach Band in a public school in the Kansas City area between Grades 5-12.

I am incredibly thankful for the SAEF Scholarship in helping me pursue my goal of becoming a Band Director. While UMKC was not far from home for me, the Scholarship freed up time that would’ve otherwise been spent working. As a result, I got to participate in several ensembles that weren’t part of my degree plan, including the top Jazz Band for 1 1/2 years, a Brass Quintet for 2 1/2 years, and Orchestra and Brass Band for a semester each. Additionally, I was able to take on leadership positions in multiple student organizations within the Conservatory at UMKC. I highly value those experiences as they all improved my skills as a musician, a teacher, and a leader. I want to thank Doug, Sandy, and Gayle for their continued support of my education and I plan to give back to SAEF in the future so that I can help continue this wonderful program.