Children of Harcum College employees are often referred to as Harcum Cubs, a nod to the College’s mascot, Hatcher the Bear.

Aidan Peterson, son of Amy Shumoski, Digital Communications Manager at Harcum, is a Cub unlike any other.

Shumoski joined Harcum in 2008, when Peterson was just two years old. In 2011, when he expressed an interest in learning the trumpet, Shumoski enrolled Peterson in the Harcum College Music School. Despite being the youngest student, he excelled rapidly. In 2013, he caught the attention of the Philadelphia 76ers, who invited him to perform the national anthem before a crowd of over 20,000.

When Harcum celebrated its centennial in 2015, the College pledged to undertake 100 Acts of Service. This inspired Peterson to embark on a volunteer mission, playing “Taps” at military funerals and events as a member of Bugles Across America. Since then, he has participated in over 600 events and earned several accolades, including the Legion of Honor Award, presented during a Harcum College basketball game.

Peterson’s volunteerism extends to supporting the Harcum College Bears on the court and the field. He has played the national anthem at over 50 sporting events, including basketball, soccer, and volleyball matches. During the 2016-17 season, the Women’s Basketball Team honored him as their Fan of the Year and presented him with a plaque during the annual Athletic Banquet.

John Ball, Varsity Men’s Basketball Head Coach, said, “Aidan has been an integral part of the Harcum College Athletics community. The moments he performs before a game are special for our team and for everyone in the gym; it brings a different kind of energy to game night! We will miss him but are incredibly excited for him to embark on his next journey.”

In 2019, Peterson gained admission to The Juilliard School’s pre-college division in Manhattan. He and his mother commute weekly by bus to New York City for his classes. Since starting trumpet lessons at Harcum, his dream was to attend the prestigious music conservatory. In April, Peterson was accepted to Juilliard as a classical trumpet major in the college division. He was the sole undergraduate student admitted to the trumpet studio this year, reflecting a 3 percent acceptance rate.

“I felt it was important to share the news with Dr. DeTemple, Harcum’s President, in person,” said Peterson, “because he and the entire college community have been instrumental in my success. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support and encouragement.”

Nearly everyone working at Harcum has watched Peterson grow up, and few were surprised by his achievement. Some are even planning a trip to New York City this summer when Peterson makes his Carnegie Hall debut with NYO-USA during World Orchestra Week.

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