The SUNY Cortland Gospel Choir was founded by a small group of students, along with Dr. Samuel L. Kelley, in 1985. The principle goal of the Gospel choir is to provide an opportunity for talented students to fulfill their artistic, academic, and spiritual potential. In April 1992, the group made its New York City debut in the SUNY Performing Arts Series where it performed at numerous NYC high schools. The SUNY Cortland African American Gospel Music Festival, which the choir hosts each November, has become an established campus tradition. It attracts broad community and college support. Colleges and Universities throughout central and Western New York participate in the annual Festival.


The gospel choir is a very diverse group of talented students from throughout New York State. It is a part of the Africana Studies Department, listed as African American Chorale (AAS 241). Students receive one credit hour for participating. However students may also participate in Gospel Choir without credit. The Wednesday evening rehearsals are an eagerly awaited time for Gospel Choir members to fellowship and to hone their music skills. The choir's energetic and spirited performances are a moving experience by all who witness their concerts.


The Gospel Choir seeks to nourish and develop talented students by offering scholarships in the areas of vocal performance, keyboard, percussion, and leadership. The SUNY Cortland Gospel Choir is under the direction of Robert C. Brown, Jr., adjunct faculty with Africana Studies Department.

The Gospel Choir rehearses Wednesday nights from 7-9:30 in Room 108 of the Dowd Fine Arts Building on the SUNY Cortland Campus.