Arizona philanthropists Billie Jo and Judd Herberger are donating to the NAU Foundation. It’s a homecoming of sorts for Billie Jo, an alumna of NAU.
The gift will name the corridor outside the Instrumental Rehearsal Room the Billie Jo and Judd Herberger Instrumental Music Hallway.
The Herbergers are well known in the Valley for their support of the arts. They have given generously to arts organizations including the Herberger Theater, the Phoenix Theater, Ballet Arizona, Scottsdale Philharmonic, Phoenix Art Museum, Scottsdale Center for the Arts, Release the Fear and Phoenix Heart Ball.
The couple recently reconnected with NAU, inspired by the university’s commitment to the arts, cultural community and students.
“It’s been such a delight to re-engage as an alumna and give back to the university that nurtured my love for the arts,” Billie Jo said.
Earlier this spring, NAU completed construction of the cutting-edge music facilities, including rehearsal areas and the new Kitt Recital Hall, which allows School of Music students to share cultural and educational performances with the Flagstaff community on a more intimate level for generations to come.
The facility features a 250-seat recital hall, rehearsal spaces for instrumental and vocal studies and choral and instrument libraries. It offers educational opportunities for students and provides cultural and educational experiences for the Flagstaff community.
“Billie Jo and Judd will influence generations of young Arizonans who have channeled their artistic creativity at NAU,” President Rita Cheng said. “Their passion and commitment will inspire investment to help sustain and grow the arts in our community.”
Billie Jo credits NAU for giving her the confidence, skills and experiences that helped her create opportunities that shaped her life. She is excited by NAU’s contributions to the growth of arts in Arizona.
“I am very impressed with NAU and the inspiring and wonderful opportunities for artistic enrichment on the Flagstaff campus,” Billie Jo said. “The new facilities, the performing and visual arts programs and the leadership are all moving NAU forward in a wonderful and exciting way.”
Learn more about inspiring generations of Lumberjack musicians and how you can support the NAU School of Music by emailing Maraka.Oltrogge@nau.edu or calling (928) 523-5231.