Phi Kappa Phi Lectureship & Induction

Paper Trail: Discovering the Life of Someone We Thought We Knew

Phi Kappa Phi Lecture: "Paper Trail: Discovering the Life of Someone We Thought We Knew, Blythe Owen, 1898‑2000"

Location: Garber Auditorium, Chan Shun Hall, Andrews University

Date and Time: Sunday, March 29, 7 p.m.

Dr. Blythe Owen was a notable composer, teacher and pianist who contributed to the advancement of American music throughout the world during her life of 101 years. Born in Minnesota, she spent her early years on the West Coast. Following some 35 years of distinguished professional activities in the Chicago area and earning a Ph.D. in composition from the esteemed Eastman School of Music in New York, Owen moved permanently to Berrien Springs. She was a professor of music, teaching composition and piano at Andrews University, and continued teaching and composing in her Kephart home until late in her 90s

Brian Strayer, professor of history and Linda Mack, associate professor of library science & music librarian, have been researching the life and works of Blythe Owen in preparation for a book on this important American composer. In their research, they have been fortunate to gain access to nearly 2,000 letters, 40 years of diaries, photos, and many other important documents that illuminate Owen's life and the tremendous challenges for a professional women during the 20th century. Strayer and Mack will share interesting tidbits of Owen's fascinating life through stories and illustrations they have gleaned from their research.

This presentation is sponsored by the Andrews University Chapter of Phi Kappa Phi and will precede the induction of new members. The Andrews University Chapter of Phi Kappa Phi induction program is open to the public. "Phi Kappa Phi is the nation's oldest, largest and most selective all‑discipline honor society. The Society annually inducts some 32,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni from nearly 300 select colleges and universities around the nation.