The Professional Audio Manufacturers Alliance (PAMA), in partnership with Shure Incorporated, announces the 2024 recipients of the fourth annual Mark Brunner Professional Audio Scholarship. Brunner, a long-time Shure executive, a past president of PAMA and a leading voice in the professional audio community, had an unwavering passion for education and mentorship throughout his career. Each scholarship is offered annually to students worldwide who are pursuing an education in professional audio.
The 2024 Mark Brunner Professional Audio Scholarship recipients are Valor Swezey from University of New Haven (for the second year) and Narek Manoukian from Southern Utah University and Mei Hei from Berklee College of Music (each for the first year).
Valor Swezey, who is studying Music and Sound Recording at University of New Haven, remarks, “Receiving this scholarship again is extremely helpful. As someone who can’t work during the school semester, it takes a weight off my shoulders to know I won’t have to worry about paying for my supplies or groceries when away from home. This scholarship really does help make school a little less stressful.”
Reflecting on the significance of the scholarship, Narek Manoukian, pursuing a masters in music technology at Southern Utah University, adds, “At the heart of my aspirations lies a strong commitment to education and mentorship. I envision establishing programs that provide affordable opportunities for students to explore and excel in audio engineering. By offering accessible avenues for learning, I aim to democratize access to audio education, ensuring that talent is recognized and nurtured regardless of background.”
Mei (Matey) Hei, pursuing a degree in music production and engineering at Berklee College of Music, notes, “I am extremely grateful for the assistance that this scholarship provides. In the audio industry, Mark Brunner left behind a legacy of invention, instruction, and mentoring. Motivated by his accomplishments, I intend to actively share my knowledge and abilities with others in order to respect his legacy. The blend of technology and creativity in audio engineering fascinates me, and I am eager to deepen my understanding and mastery of this art.”
On behalf of PAMA, Chris Regan, chair of the board of directors, stated, “For the fourth straight year, we are honoring the legacy of Mark Brunner by providing assistance to a new generation of audio professionals. We are pleased to once again help Valor Swezey with their pursuits, and to add Narek Manoukian and Mei Hei to the roster of young talent receiving this scholarship. Mark had a passion for mentorship, and he would certainly be proud of what these individuals are accomplishing. We thank Shure for partnering with PAMA on this scholarship and for making it possible.”
“We are so excited to see the growth of scholarship applicants over the years,” said Chris Schyvinck, President and CEO of Shure. “It is essential to help the next generation in this industry and I know Mark would be thrilled we are assisting these future audio professionals as they pursue their dreams.”
A former President of PAMA from 2011-2013, Brunner provided a consistent voice to the strategic direction of PAMA and its role in advancing the professional audio industry. Mark joined Shure in 1989 and during his tenure held several key positions, including Director of Advertising and Managing Director of the Musical Instrument and Touring Sound business unit. Most recently, Mark was Vice President of Global Corporate & Government Relations, where he worked on numerous industry issues, including the FCC rules for wireless device operation/frequency, spectrum allocation, and lobbied to protect the wireless microphone market sector. Additionally, he was a prominent member of The Recording Academy Producers & Engineers Wing Manufacturers Council, where he frequently shared his views on legislative wireless white space and broadband issues as well as other related industry matters.
Individuals and companies interested in supporting the Mark Brunner Professional Audio Scholarship fund may donate via the PAMA website here. PAMA is appreciative of all donations that honor Mark’s legacy and support students pursuing careers in the professional audio industry.
For more information, please go to https://www.pamalliance.org/scholarship.
