Jeff Bridges Memorial Scholarship

In the Spring of 2021, the performing arts lost one of the greatest advocates our activity has known. Jeff Bridges was a longtime judge, clinician, educator and all around great guy whose relentless passion for the performing arts knew no bounds. Jeff consistently focused on making sure every performer that walked onto the field (or floor) had the best opportunity possible to showcase their talents. He was a cheerleader and supporter for every one who knew him, and a mentor for those close to him. His loss left a void both in our hearts and in our community that will be felt for decades to come.

Following his passion, the Carolina Winter Ensemble Association partnered with the South Florida Winter Guard Association to create the Jeff Bridges Memorial Scholarship Program. The goal of the scholarship was to offer the opportunity for participants to continue their education in the marching arts by helping support their tuition costs. Our hope is that by enabling performers to participate in the next level of the marching arts, they will use their education and experience to become an instructor - enabling the performers from the next generation to have the same opportunities that they had while marching.

Collectively, we raised over $5k for the scholarship program, which was split between the two circuits. Each circuit is responsible for implementing the program in their own vision, provided the funds be used to provide tuition support for a participant to engage with a drum corps or indoor ensemble. It is up to each circuit to find ways to continue to support the program past the initial phase.