From Central City to Cerity Partners — A Financial & Musical Balancing Act

Name: Russ Curry
Hometown: Central City, KY
Graduation Year: Class of 2021
Majors: Music (BA, Extended) & Finance (Personal Financial Planning)

Why WKU?

For Russ Curry, choosing Western Kentucky University was about more than academics—it was about belonging.

“I had many opportunities to come here for music events throughout middle and high school,” Russ says. “By the time I had to make a college decision, I already felt a sense of belonging that I associated with coming to Western.”

That familiarity helped lay the foundation for a bold academic decision: pursuing a double major in both music and finance.

“Balancing two passions wasn’t always easy,” he admits, “but I didn’t get the degree that was convenient—I got the degree that I wanted.”

Where Is He Now?

Today, Russ works full-time as a financial planner at Cerity Partners in Bowling Green, KY. But his musical roots haven’t gone silent.

“I still find time to enjoy music with the people who matter most to me,” he says. That includes playing bassoon or singing in community ensembles—and sometimes just relaxing at the end of a long day with his guitar in hand.

What’s Next?

This fall, Russ begins graduate coursework in financial planning through Kansas State University—a program designed to strengthen both the technical and relational sides of financial advising.

And while his professional future is centered on finance, music will always be part of his life.

“I want to use music as a way to stay connected to my friends, community, and self,” he shares. “I had a wonderful teacher who could sum this up in a simple wisdom: ‘Band is the gift that we give to each other.’”

When Plans Change — And That’s a Good Thing

When Russ first started college, his future looked different than it does today. But he’s grateful for the journey—and the people who helped him along the way.

“I’m so thankful for the wonderful professors, teachers, and mentors in my life who provided encouragement and counsel when it was desperately needed,” he says. “When I had a struggle, there was always a kind faculty member I could go to for help.”

How WKU Shaped His Path

Russ believes his WKU music education gave him a uniquely valuable set of tools—even outside the arts.

“Music can be a foundation for success in many unrelated enterprises,” he explains. “When a band, orchestra, or choir student graduates, they bring a team-oriented skillset into the world:

• Commitment to the group
• Showing up prepared
• Personal discipline in rehearsal and in practice
• Calm and focus under pressure

No other program is going to provide you with this kind of education.”

Favorite WKU Music Memory 🎶

It’s hard for Russ to pick just one highlight, but he’ll never forget the Big Red Marching Band bowl trip to Orlando in 2017.

Even more impactful? The friendships made along the way, including meeting his wife, Sarah.

Advice for Future Double Majors:

“Get the degree that you want—not the degree that is convenient.”

🎓 WKU Department of Music
Celebrating graduates who take the skills they gained in music far beyond the stage or the classroom.

Know a standout student or alum we should feature next? Let us know!