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Atkinson Gift Enriches Music Department

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Edith and F.E. Atkinson

When F.E. Atkinson passed away in June 2007 at the age of 97, he included a major gift to the NMSU music department in his will. Department head Dr. Ken Van Winkle says, "The F.E. and Edith Atkinson gift is the most significant and largest contribution ever received by the New Mexico State University Music Department."

Plans are in place to name the recital hall in the music building for F.E. and his wife, Edith. That ceremony will be held Thursday, Nov. 6, at 7:30 pm.

"My parents would be so pleased that the concert hall is being named in their honor," says son Charles Atkinson. "As the interface between the NMSU teaching and rehearsal studios and the concert-going public, the concert hall is a beautiful reflection of the importance that teaching and music held in their own lives."

Music was always an important part of the Atkinson home. "My mother played the piano," Charles says. "I also remember that my dad enjoyed singing and his father played the violin. Going to concerts was a regular part of their lives."

The Atkinson family came to Las Cruces in 1954 when F.E. accepted the position of Director of Instruction with the Las Cruces Public Schools. He held that until retirement in 1973. Edith taught first grade at Central Elementary School until 1977.

Choral director Dr. Jerry Ann Alt says, "We told Mr. Atkinson that his gift was going to completely change the music department. We are already seeing signs of that change."

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