Department of Music Receives $5 Million Gift

I am pleased to share that Florida Atlantic has received a $5 million gift to support music education and establish a legacy for the Palm Beach Pops orchestra and its founder, the late Bob Lappin. Donated by the Legacy Foundation of Palm Beach County, an extension of the Palm Beach Pops, the gift also includes a valuable music library consisting of music scores, concert notes and more. Lappin’s son, Jon Lappin, serves as the president and executive director of the Legacy Foundation of Palm Beach County and the Palm Beach Pops, and was instrumental in facilitating this meaningful gift and establishing his father’s legacy at the University.

The gift will be used by the Department of Music within the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters to establish scholarships, graduate fellowships and other forms of student financial aid, which will help recruit and retain top music students. It also will enable students to purchase higher quality instruments, as well as specialized instruments and pianos.

Florida Atlantic will continue the Palm Beach Pops’ legacy of music education by expanding student outreach and allowing students throughout Palm Beach County to tour the FAU music facilities and observe rehearsals and classes. The University also will host an annual Bob Lappin and Palm Beach Pops Legacy Concert for students and the public. Additionally, a permanent display will be established in the University Theatre lobby to honor Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops with a special collection of artifacts, photos and commemorative items.

We are extremely grateful to the Lappin family, the Legacy Foundation of Palm Beach County and the Palm Beach Pops for this important gift to our Department of Music. The Palm Beach Pops brought entertainment and joy to listeners of all ages, and we’re proud to recognize its legacy and carry forward its mission of music education.