UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — On the eve of his monumental performance at Beaver Stadium on Saturday, April 27, Luke Combs made a lasting impression on the leaders of Movin' On, a student-run organization, amidst the excitement leading up to his show. The interactions between the Grammy-nominated country singer, the team behind his tour and the Penn State group gave the students an inside perspective on the music industry, and it also inspired a donor, who has chosen to remain anonymous, to make a $25,000 gift in support of Movin’ On. That commitment has formed the foundation of the Movin’ On Leadership Award, an endowment the students hope to turn into a scholarship for Movin’ On leaders.
“The music industry has long been a pioneer in bringing people together and building a stronger community,” said Nick Pazdziorko, the staff adviser for Movin’ On. “This generous gift underscores the fusion of music and philanthropy, and it will also help to rally support for the student volunteers who make Movin’ On, a signature event at University Park, happen every year. Our volunteers give so much to the Penn State community, and I am glad that their spirit and determination are being recognized.”
On Friday, April 26, Combs and his manager, Chris Kappy, engaged with aspiring industry professionals, offering invaluable insights into the music business. Additionally, students had the opportunity to sit down with staff from AEG Worldwide, the tour’s producer and promoter, to discuss industry trends and opportunities.
“These impromptu gatherings served as a powerful reminder of the symbiotic relationship between artists, their fans and the passionate individuals working behind the scenes to bring their visions to life,” said Penn State student Sofia Moussan, the Movin’ On executive director for 2023 and 2024. “We are honored that a donor who learned about Movin’ On through these interactions has given us such inspiration and support for our commitment to building community through music and pursuing our own careers in the industry.”
Inspired by the $25,000 commitment, the members of Movin’ On are now organizing a campaign to match the gift and reach the $50,000 required to endow a permanent scholarship for leaders of the group.
“Planning and producing Movin’ On can be a full-time job for our most dedicated members, but we do it because we want to create incredible music experiences for the Penn State community and because it offers great preparation for a career in the music industry,” said Penn State student Bridie Lawall, the Movin’ On executive director for 2025. “A scholarship will help Movin’ On members to balance the demands of our organization with both earning and paying for a Penn State degree.”
Movin' On, known for its annual music festival showcasing both emerging and established artists, serves as a cornerstone of Penn State's vibrant cultural scene, and Movin' On students have played a significant role in the live entertainment industry after graduation, working with employers such as Live Nation and the Wells Fargo Center and in roles ranging from event directors and artist managers to sound design and venue management. Involvement with the organization offers opportunities to develop skills and experience in event planning, financial management, contract negotiation, marketing and promotion, community outreach and more.
“The significance of this generous contribution extends beyond its monetary value,” said Pazdziorko “The fund will not only provide financial support but also opens doors for Movin' On students to interact with industry professionals, such as AEG, who generously shared their expertise. These interactions offer priceless insights into the entertainment industry, enriching the educational experience for students. This gift serves as a catalyst for further engagement and learning, sparking a fundraising campaign to match the commitment and ensuring continued opportunities for hands-on industry experience.”
Gifts to the Movin’ On Leadership Award will advance the University’s historic land-grant mission to serve and lead. Through philanthropy, alumni and friends are helping students to join the Penn State family and prepare for lifelong success; driving research, outreach and economic development that grow our shared strength and readiness for the future; and increasing the University’s impact for families, patients and communities across the commonwealth and around the world. Learn more by visiting raise.psu.edu.