What does it take to turn a love of music into something more? At Brightpoint Community College, students are discovering that studying music is about more than learning notes and performing on stage. It takes dedication, creativity and a willingness to grow. In this edition of Meet the Major, Dr. David Guthrie, professor of music and head of Brightpoint's music program, shares how his lifelong passion for music shaped his career, the moments that make teaching rewarding and how Brightpoint helps students build a foundation for their next steps in music.

For Kerrigan Sullivan, it started with a magic moment. She was about five years old when her mom took her to see a play. Sullivan remembers being completely swept up in the experience. By six, she had landed her first role. Today, as a professor of theatre and chair of Brightpoint’s Department of Performing Arts, she helps students create those magic moments for others.

Catherine Owens enrolled at Brightpoint without a clear career path. With the help of the college, Catherine discovered her interest in fashion design, and found the support she needed to achieve her artistic ambitions, from being featured in an Apple TV series to starting a vintage clothing business.

After high school, Khiem Tran spent a gap year working and saving — to achieve his dream of earning a bachelor’s degree. At Brightpoint, he discovered a lasting desire to give back and took advantage of the college’s guaranteed transfer agreement with Virginia Commonwealth University.

Inspiration for the winning artwork came during a class project.

Through her involvement in our campus community, Erica Mokun discovered her passion for illuminating other people's stories through journalism.

The college gave painter Joanna Pottle a strong artistic foundation and the confidence to further her academic and professional career. Now, she's a Fulbright Scholar working in Krakow, Poland.

Brightpoint gave Antonio Knoxx the information and tools he needed to start his own business. Now, he's helping Richmond businesses build their brands through graphic design, video and photography.