Red Hot Chili Peppers Drummer Chad Smith Establishes Music Scholarship at University of Michigan

Chad Smith, drummer for Red Hot Chili Peppers, announced a need-based music scholarship at the University of Michigan on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer made the announcement during a surprise appearance at the school's Band-O-Rama event at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor.

The Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship will be given to an incoming School of Music, Theatre & Dance student starting in 2026. Named after his parents, the program represents a partnership between the university and the Chad Smith Foundation.

"A lot of people (say), 'The Chili Peppers, West Coast band, California this and California that.' I get it. I was born in St. Paul, Minnesota," Chad Smith told The Associated Press. "The Minnesota connection is strong. The Michigan connection is strong. And that's why we're here. It's a natural, authentic fit for us."

The scholarship will help incoming freshmen who show financial need and a strong commitment to pursuing careers in music. It supports the foundation's mission to expand access to quality music education and create pathways for musicians across the country.

Smith, 64, performed the band's hit "Can't Stop" alongside the Michigan Marching Band. He also played the school's fight song "The Victors" to a sold-out audience.

"The University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance is honored to partner with the Chad Smith Foundation in creating this scholarship," David Gier, dean and professor of music at the school, wrote in a November 3 press release, according to MLive. 

The announcement comes two months after the foundation launched an identical program at the University of Minnesota. His parents are Minnesota alums.

Smith grew up in suburban Detroit. He attended Lahser High School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. His career started when he played clubs and bars across the Detroit area.

"Michigan is where it all started for me," the drummer said in the press release. "It's where I learned to play, where I fell in love with music, and where my parents supported me every step of the way."

The first recipient will be awarded in fall 2026.