Quote: “Since my time at Eastman and the Institute for Music Leadership, I’ve often reflected on the impact these programs had on me as a musician, a teacher, and a person. What is the value of a higher education program but to create a brave space for students to explore and take chances? A space to meet wins with encouragement and failures with compassionate correction, a bit removed from a commercial world that can often be risk-averse and critical. In order to be “ever better” we must take chances and trust in the community around us to help pick us up when we fall. We must have mentors who continue guiding us towards our North Star through the wins and defeats we experience together. Out of all of the wonderful experiences I had at Eastman, the care and support of my mentors was the most meaningful.”