It was in the early part of January when, as scholarship coordinator in Juilliard’s Development Office, I fielded a call from Bill Cosby to talk about scholarships. When I first picked up the phone, I didn’t believe it was likely to be the real Bill Cosby, the well-known comedian. But in two seconds, his inimitable voice (and good humor) convinced me.

Joan Warren accepts a scholarship check from Bill Cosby. (Photo courtesy of the William Morris Agency)

Mr. Cosby immediately presented his idea for a new scholarship, and outlined the specific details he envisioned. I was impressed by the fact that he hadn’t asked a personal assistant or financial advisor to make this call. He knew exactly what he wanted to do. It was obvious that philanthropy may be counted among his many talents.

His inspiration: to endow a new voice scholarship in honor of his uncle, Samuel R. Cosby Jr., a Juilliard alumnus (BS ’48, MS ’50), and make the first public announcement at his performance in Philadelphia’s new performing arts hall, the Kimmel Center, on January 4, 2002. His uncle was in the audience that night, and the new scholarship at his alma mater was a surprise to him. Joan Warren, Juilliard’s associate dean for financial aid, was also present to congratulate Samuel and to thank his generous nephew. "Like many others, I’ve always admired Bill Cosby," says Warren about meeting Mr. Cosby, "and his uncle was equally as charming, witty, and spirited. I, along with the sold-out audience of 2,500, was deeply moved by their warmth, humor, and love. It was a great honor to be a part of such a magical evening."

Bill’s uncle Samuel, a bass-baritone, was already working as an organist and choirmaster in high school even before he entered West Chester State Teachers College in Pennsylvania to earn his teaching degree. With that degree in hand, he came to Juilliard, where he received his bachelor’s degree in 1948 and his master’s degree in 1950.

In 1950 Samuel returned to Pennsylvania to begin a long and dedicated teaching career in Philadelphia high schools. Bill Cosby said his own earliest memories include hearing his uncle playing the organ and singing—"both thunderously!" He said his uncle, now 84 and retired, had taught, nurtured, and inspired countless students over the years.

The new Samuel R. Cosby Jr. Scholarship will help generations of Juilliard voice students develop their artistry. The Juilliard School is proud to welcome this new endowed scholarship from Bill Cosby, who has honored his uncle in a meaningful way, in giving lasting support and encouragement to voice students at Juilliard.

The Juilliard School is very grateful for the scholarships and awards that alumni and friends have generously given this year. The School always welcomes the opportunity to discuss ways to support our educational and artistic activities through a variety of programs including currently funded scholarships, endowed scholarships, special project support, bequests, and planned gifts. For more information about contributing to Juilliard, please call the Office of Development and Public Affairs at (212) 799-5000, ext. 278, or visit our Web site at: www.juilliard.edu/giving.

Victoria Murray Brand is senior development associate and scholarship coordinator in the Development Office.