By Joan C. McKinney, director, Office of University Communications
CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. - Tenacity, resilience, creativity and heart.
These qualities, and more, earned Dr. Corey Bonds, assistant professor of music and director of bands, the Campbellsville University Non-Tenured Faculty Award recipient at the university's first chapel of the semester Aug. 24.
Bonds, according to Dr. Donna Hedgepath, provost and vice president for academic affairs, was diligent working during the COVID-19 pandemic, which proved quite challenging, not only for performing arts and athletics, but higher education in general.
“Corey managed to lead the Tiger Marching Band through a modified band camp and rehearsals, while still producing a quality, fun show—without an audience or football team,” Hedgepath said.
“I realize many others have achieved similar feats, but not the specific quality and heart for CU, of which we receive benefit. He's just an exceptional human who wants to see students succeed and know the love of Christ.”
The Non-Tenured Faculty Award recognizes excellence in teaching, service to students and to the overall mission of Campbellsville University. Each year, Campbellsville University's administration and academic leadership select a faculty member for this honor.
“I want to thank the students that have come and been a part of our program and the School of Music,” Bonds said.
“I'm glad you trusted much of your musical growth and spiritual growth not only to my leadership but to the excellent team I work with. It is an absolute honor and privilege to serve at this institution where Christ is exalted, and students are encouraged to grow in academics and their spiritual walk. Thank you all.”
Hedgepath read comments from students about Bonds. “This is the hardest gen ed class I have, probably too much work for Understanding Music, but I can't help but like Dr. Bonds and the class!” said one student.
Another student said Bonds was “great and always kind of understanding.” And another wrote: “We had a good routine going and everyone seemed to know what to expect. Dr. Bonds knew all of our names and was very nice and would say hi outside of class as well. This class did give me a deeper understanding of music, and it helped me appreciate it more.”
A band student said, “Dr. Bonds is a fantastic professor that makes marching band fun and enjoyable by cracking jokes ever once in a while also working hard to help us perfect the show we love to perform.”
Bonds completed his Doctor of Musical Arts in Wind Band Conducting from the University of Kentucky in 2020. He earned his Bachelor of Music with a Music Education Area in May 2005 and his Master of Music Education in December 2006, both from Campbellsville University.
Bonds started his career as a high school band director, leading the Glasgow High School Marching Band to multiple state championships.
Before receiving the title of director of bands at Campbellsville University, he served as assistant director of bands at the university.
He continues to lead the band programs at Campbellsville University beginning with a record-breaking number of over 100 Tiger Marching Band members this fall.
Bonds is married to Katherine Vinson Bonds, who received her Associate of Science in Christian Studies in 2018 from Campbellsville University. They have three sons: Paxton, Parker and Price. He is the son of Sharon and Jerry Bonds of Scottsville, Ky.
Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university with an enrollment of nearly 12,000 students. The university offers over 100 programs of study including doctoral, masters, bachelors, associate and certification programs. The website for complete information is www.campbellsville.edu.