William Woltz: A noted program

Regarding the May 27 news article “56 UNC degrees dropped”: I am saddened and perplexed by the decision of the UNC Board of Governors to end the jazz studies program at N.C. Central University. This program and its director, Dr. Ira Wiggins, are nationally known and highly respected in the jazz education community.

Many of my classmates have gone on to enjoy successful careers in the music industry, thanks in no small part to Wiggins’ tough standards and high expectations of each student.

From both a personal and professional standpoint, I count my enrollment in the program as one of the best decisions of my life.

I ask the Board of Governors to reverse its decision and restore the jazz studies program and the opportunities it offers to North Carolina students.

This story was originally published June 1, 2015 at 5:27 PM with the headline "William Woltz: A noted program."