Sign in Subscribe
College faculty

Chad Smith Launches Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship to Support Undergraduate Music Students

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Chad Smith, Grammy-winning Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer and Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Famer, announced a new partnership with the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, launching the Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship in honor of his parents. The scholarship will provide need-based support for an incoming music student beginning in 2026. Smith made a surprise appearance and performed during U-M's annual Band-O-Rama event on November 2, 2025, at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship will provide need-based support for an incoming music student beginning in 2026, supporting the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance undergraduate program.
  • The scholarship is named in honor of Smith's parents, Curtis and Joan Smith, who instilled in him the values of education, community, and creativity.
  • The Chad Smith Foundation's mission is to expand access to high-quality music education and career pathways for aspiring musicians nationwide.
  • The University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance is excited to award the first recipient of the Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship in fall 2026.
  • Established in memory of his parents, the scholarship reinforces Smith's commitment to supporting young musicians and giving them a chance to chase their dreams.
  • The Chad Smith Foundation will partner with the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance to create the scholarship.

Statistics:

  • 2026: The scholarship will provide support for an incoming music student, marking the first year of the partnership between the Chad Smith Foundation and the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance.
  • 2025: Smith made a surprise appearance and performed during U-M's annual Band-O-Rama event on November 2 at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
  • 100%: The scholarship will provide need-based support, ensuring an incoming music student has access to high-quality music education.
  • Nationwide: The Chad Smith Foundation aims to expand access to high-quality music education and career pathways for aspiring musicians across the United States.

Sources:

  • University of Michigan News, "Red Hot Chili Peppers Drummer Chad Smith Launches Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship at University of Michigan" (November 2025)
  • Chad Smith Foundation, "Mission Statement" (n.d.)
  • University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, "Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship" (n.d.)

Read more