The Hal Gaba Fund (for Music, Theatre, and Arts majors)
The Hal Gaba Fund exists to provide scholarships to undergraduate Fraternity Brothers with a major in either the area of Music, or Theatre, or the Arts.
About Harold “Hal” Gaba
Hal was a veteran entertainment industry executive. Before his career successes, he was initiated into Pi Lambda Phi via the CA Tau Chapter at the University of California Berkeley in 1964. He went on to earn a master’s degree in Finance from UCLA.
He started his career in 1967. In 1990, Gaba became President and CEO of Act III Communications, a multimedia holding company with interests in broadcasting, movie theaters, trade magazine publishing, motion picture and television production, and music. In 1999, he became a co-owner and Chairman of Concord Records – an American record label focusing on genres like jazz, pop, rock, and blues. Although Hal would unfortunately die in 2009 after a battle with a rare form of prostate cancer, his impact within the industry is lasting and he is fondly remembered.
Longtime business partner and friend Norman Lear (a writer, film, and tv producer) noted that Concord Records growth is a reflection of Hal’s vision. He specifically remarked, “[Hal] was brilliant and kind and generous and open to a fault. He was an extraordinary partner and friend. They make Hal Gabas three times a century. I have yet to meet the other two.”
Glen Barros, President of Concord Music Group, noted “Hal was an extraordinary guy, who had such credibility and skills in figuring out ways to accomplish [his goals].”
This scholarship in Hal’s name ensures future Pilams with similar professional interests will have financial assistance to aid their undergraduate studies. The scholarship also keeps Hal’s memory and story alive.
Minimum criteria for the Scholarship include:
- Having a major that is either in the area of Music, or Theatre, or the Arts.
- GPA 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent)
- Full-time undergraduate member initiated before or during the Spring 2022 semester who wil also be enrolled full-time as an undergraduate in the coming semester.
- Currently enrolled at a college or university with an active Chapter or Associate Chapter
- Considered “in good standing” with the Chapter, IHQ, and federal, state, and local governments
- Completed application, letter of recommendation, resume, and unofficial transcripts
- Provide digital interview to the Educational Foundation