By: Kaci King
3/3/2005

When Cecil Riney graduated from Friends University with a degree in Music Education in 1955, he wasn’t expecting to spend the next 45 years working for his alma mater. But Riney joined the staff at Friends in 1960 and has since become the chairman of the Music and Fine Arts division as well as the director of Singing Quakers.

His commitment as chairman has led his division to national recognition, making the program elite in the Midwest.

“I’m honored to be able to build a larger, more significant Fine Arts Division,” Riney said. “A lot of great people committed time and effort to make sure we got to this level.”

Under Riney’s direction the Singing Quakers have appeared on various national morning shows and performed all over the United States in addition to Europe.

This spring students and faculty learned first hand all good things come to an end after Riney announced his retirement, effective in the fall.

“I’m obviously at the retirement age,” Riney said. “I simply decided it was time for me to pursue other interests in the field of music. I wanted to spend more time with my family.”

Riney’s announced retirement has left many music education majors with mixed emotions as they are now forced to question what his absence will mean for their division.

“The University will never be the same. It’s losing one of its best professionals. Dr Riney has built a really strong foundation and following here,” said Sara Stone, senior class president and music education major.
President Biff Green shares the same views as Stone in regard to Riney's decision to retire. Green feels the University will experience a significant loss without Riney’s direction.

“Dr. Riney will be a big loss to the University,” Green said. “His influence in the area of music is statewide as well as national. We will never be able to replace a Dr. Riney.”

Vocal professor David Weber has worked under Riney for the duration of his career at Friends. He describes Riney as a man of faith and humility, who has mastered the art of his craft.

“He is an icon,” Weber said. “His pursuit of excellence has shaped this University.”

Riney has not only impacted the Friends campus; he currently serves as director of the Wichita Symphony Chorus. In 1994 Riney led the chorus in a performance at Carnegie Hall, and in 1996, he was inducted into the Kansas Music Educators Hall of Fame. 

According to sophomore Graham Fairleigh, none of Riney’s accomplishments can compare to the relationship he has built with his students. In Riney’s absence, Fairleigh vows to carry on his dream. He said, “Never have I had a teacher or professional who has impacted me like Dr. Riney. His influence will continue through his students.”