Patrick D. McCoy ’05 chose to attend Shenandoah University because of its reputation and the chance to study with Associate Professor of Voice (Tenor) Michael Forest ’85, ’86, M.M.Ed.
“This institution provided me with valuable professional experiences and opportunities,” said McCoy. “One of the experiences that I cherish is the chance to study under the guidance of the renowned Metropolitan Opera tenor, Michael Forest.”
McCoy has many fond memories of the university, which include being one of the charter members of its Black Student Union, singing in the Harambee Gospel Choir, competing in the Bach-Handel Competition and speaking at his Graduate Baccalaureate Service. He also had many supportive Black mentors in addition to Michael Forest ’85, ’86, M.M.Ed., which included former Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success Claressa Morton, Ph.D., and former School of Business Dean Miles Davis, Ph.D.
“For me, it was important to see walking, breathing successful leaders who looked just like me,” said McCoy. “I am glad for the opportunity to learn under world-class instructors and be around talented people.”
McCoy is the development and communications manager for the Washington Conservatory of Music in Glen Echo, Maryland. In this role, McCoy is in charge of promoting and marketing all of the conservatory’s programs, which includes individual music lessons, group courses and all conservatory events. Furthermore, he is responsible for raising funding for the conservatory through grants, benefactors and other significant contributions. He is also the organist and choirmaster at Saint John’s Episcopal Church in Beltsville, Maryland.
The most rewarding part of McCoy’s career has been interviewing several notable figures, including Sarah Coburn, Joshua Bell, Renee Fleming and many more.
McCoy’s advice for current and future students: “Don’t accept no! Just because something does not work out right then and there does not mean that it will not happen!”