Family and friends of the late Flora Menzel Lee, a longtime music educator, established a scholarship with the Black Hills State University Foundation to benefit Spearfish High School graduates pursuing a music degree or education degree with a music emphasis at BHSU.
The Black Hills State University Foundation is pleased to announce that a new music scholarship, The Flora Menzel Lee Memorial Music Scholarship, has been established to benefit future music teachers. Kevin Kaitfors, music major from Spearfish, is the first recipient of the annual $500 scholarship.
Family and friends of the late Flora Lee have established the scholarship to honor a woman whose love of music was a joyous part of her 97 years. A native South Dakotan, Lee received her teaching certificate from Spearfish Normal School in the spring of 1938 and her bachelor's in education from Black Hills Teachers College in 1963. Lee's career thrived as an elementary classroom teacher in Flandreau and Spearfish.
Peggy Junek, one of Lee's children, said her mother was passionate about music her entire life. Lee taught each of her children to play the piano and encouraged them to play other musical instruments.
"We want to thank all those who contributed to Flora Lee's memorial and this scholarship," said Junek. "Our mother would be thrilled to know the scholarship will support a local student as they further their education in music."
Junek said Lee had her organ in her room while in assisted living at Belle Estates. Residents would come to Lee's room to sing and dance while she played.
"She could even make Chopsticks sound fancy," said Junek.
In recognition of her 35 years of distinguished service to young people and devotion to music education Lee was presented with the Silver Staff Recognition Award from the SD Music Education Association. She ended her career as a music teacher in the Spearfish School District in 1982, upon retiring she continued her participation in local volunteer music activities.
Lee shared her fondness of music with the Spearfish community in many ways. She was an accompanist for music contest participants and the Senior Citizen's Choir, gave piano lessons and was a church organist. The Senior Citizen Happy Times Band was founded by Lee and she was also the band director for 25 years.
The scholarship exists to help graduates, or children of graduates, from Spearfish High School who will pursue either a music degree or education degree with a music emphasis at Black Hills State University.
To contribute to The Flora Menzel Lee Memorial Music Scholarship, contact BHSU University Advancement at 605-642-6385.