“He was really a positive force in our program, and I have never heard one unkind
word about him from anyone. His loss has been devastating for us all.” 
Dan Boner has many cherished memories of Aaron Foster, known by everyone as Frosty. Originally
from upstate New York, Frosty came to ETSU with dreams of a future in bluegrass music.
As a student, he performed in the Bluegrass Pride Band, recorded with other students,
worked with the JAM program at University School, and ran the youth bluegrass programming
for the Jenny Brook Festival in New York.
His future was promising. In addition to having his own band, Dreamcatcher, and being
part of the Amanda Cook Band, he had signed with Mountain Fever Records as part of
the duo Boone and Foster. He also worked for the ETSU Department of Appalachian Studies
as the public relations and marketing coordinator.
Frosty died unexpectedly on February 10, 2021. He was only 28 years old.
“Tricia Eaves, a former adjunct and student, approached us about starting a scholarship
in memory of Frosty,” said Boner, Director of Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies. “Frosty’s parents were so humbled by this idea and said yes, and Eaves made the
first gift.”
The Aaron “Frosty” Foster Scholarship will provide assistance to a student majoring
or minoring in Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies.
“We know many of our students struggle to meet their educational costs,” Boner said.
“This scholarship allows us to carry his legacy forward by helping those following
in his footsteps.”