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Chad Smith Foundation Launches Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship at University of Minnesota

Grammy-winning Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer to celebrate with Homecoming halftime performance and luncheon

MINNEAPOLIS, MN [September 2, 2025] — Born in St. Paul and raised by two proud University of Minnesota alumni, Grammy-winning Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith will return home this fall to launch the Chad Smith Foundation's first-ever scholarship at the University's School of Music. The Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship will provide support for aspiring young musicians across Minnesota.

The scholarship will debut in a big way during Homecoming Weekend on Saturday, October 11, 2025, featuring two signature events: a daytime fundraising luncheon to benefit the Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship fund and a special halftime performance with Smith and the University's "Pride of Minnesota" Marching Band during the Gophers' football game against Purdue.

"The University of Minnesota gave my parents the foundation to build a life and support our family, which allowed me to pursue my musical dream. To launch our foundation's first-ever scholarship at my parents' alma mater is a huge honor. By connecting the dots between the incredible work of community music schools across Minnesota and the world-class programs at the U, we can create real opportunities for the next generation."

The scholarship honors Smith's parents, Curtis and Joan Smith, who graduated from the University in 1957 and 1948. Curtis attended through the G.I. Bill after serving in the U.S. military, and together the couple instilled a lifelong love of learning and the arts in their family. Chad credits them for exposing him to music early on and supporting his dream of becoming a professional musician. The scholarship extends that same encouragement to future generations.

Eligibility will focus on students entering the University of Minnesota's School of Music who have come through Minnesota's nonprofit community music programs, with special consideration for those from underserved and underrepresented communities.

"This partnership is a powerful testament to the impact of a University of Minnesota education, one that echoes through generations. We are profoundly grateful to the Chad Smith Foundation for choosing us as their inaugural partner and for creating a scholarship that honors two University of Minnesota alumni, Curtis and Joan Smith. This fund will not only change lives but will also strengthen our bonds with vital community music programs across the state."

Proceeds from the luncheon and ongoing fundraising efforts will support the Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship fund. For information on the luncheon and how to donate, please visit the event page linked here.