The endowed position is the result of a $1 million gift from Paul and Doris Moriarty.
The announcement was a surprise to Diddle, who was directing the Concert Choir’s performance at the SDSU Foundation’s annual Celebration of Philanthropy. Before its closing song, the Foundation’s Council of Trustees Chair Rita Edwards approached the podium to make the announcement before a crowd of nearly 700 in Frost Arena.
Edwards announced a $1 million gift from an anonymous donor. Paul and Doris Moriarty were later revealed to be the donors.
Jaime O’Neill was among the students performing with the Concert Choir that night.
“When I saw Dr. Diddle receive her new endowed faculty position, I was sitting at the piano directly in front of her; I had the best view in the house.
She was totally surprised, and I was elated to see her receive such an honor. Dr. Diddle’s reaction is an example to all of us, showing how to humbly accept an award while also giving recognition to those who got her to that point.” - Jaime O'Neill
The position is the first within the School of Performing Arts and marks the 47th commitment (as of 5/19/22) in place for endowed faculty and leadership positions at the university.
SDSU has a goal to secure commitments for 50 endowed positions during Bold & Blue: The Campaign for South Dakota State University.
The position is especially meaningful to Dr. Diddle, who began work at the university as Assistant Professor of Music in 2003 and was promoted to the Professor of Choral Activities in 2012 – a role she has held for a decade that will now be reinforced with new opportunities and funding.
Dr. Laura Diddle“It is affirming and such an honor to be the first recipient of an endowed position in the School of Performing Arts. This honor truly stands on the shoulders of so many who came before me and owes a debt of gratitude to my colleagues who support, collaborate, and encourage me on a daily basis.”
The endowment created by the Moriarty family will provide $40,000 a year.
With the perpetual nature of the endowment, the funding is available to support travel, programming, and recruitment.
Dr. David Reynolds, Director of the School of Performing Arts, said the Moriarty gift builds momentum for programming and future positions.
“The faculty and staff of the school are both humbled and honored by this investment.”
The funding will elevate musical experiences and educational opportunities for students at SDSU.
Diddle said the endowment could help with everything from guest artists, commissioned musical compositions, regional tours, collaboration with internationally famous artists, and even potential plans for an international tour.
“An endowed position allows big dreams and imaginings for the choral students. My ‘if onlys’ can now become tangible realities.” - Dr. Laura Diddle
Endowment funds are long-term investments that provide perpetual support for students, faculty, and programs. The earnings from these major gifts ensure a lasting impact on a program or area you’re passionate about for years to come.
