Our mission.
To bridge the gap between higher education and real-world opportunities, we are developing an inclusive program to ensure all students have access to the support and resources they need to succeed.
Our Vision.
A music industry that reflects a diverse workforce, driven by a new generation of talented professionals who have been inspired, educated, and empowered by Festival University-affiliated programs.
Meet the Founders
Jeff Mcclusky
Co-Founder
ryan Carey
Co-founder
From We Launch to Festival U: Where Education Meets Experience.
Jeff McClusky & Associates has been a cornerstone of the music industry for over 42 years, initially built on our expertise in Radio Promotion across various contemporary formats. We've also developed significant expertise in artist development strategies for both international labels and independent artists, always putting music and artists first. Alongside this, we've fostered the growth of young, enthusiastic students.
During the 1980s and 90s, our company was at the epicenter of music exposure, with a dominant market share in radio promotion during a time when radio was crucial for growth. This success naturally attracted many students seeking internships, including my daughter Lauren, who was keen on gaining experience in the music industry.
What started as informal summer internships for students from various Chicago colleges evolved into a more structured program. Interns engaged in scheduled activities, meetings with artists, and gained hands-on experience with industry tools. As these interns sought jobs in the industry, we provided mentorship and placement support, leading to the official formation of the We Launch program in 2016. This program featured full-time faculty advisors, 12-week schedules, and opportunities for students to earn college credit. They also organized an annual benefit concert for the Special Olympics, led by Lauren.
Over the years, we've successfully identified, trained, and launched over 75 students into internships and early-stage positions throughout the industry, with many now holding high-level roles.
The development of Festival University programs was a natural extension of our We Launch program, collaborating with colleges like Belmont, Bradley, DePaul, Western Illinois, UTK, and Tennessee State to create summer initiatives. These programs, branded as Bonnaroo University, Lollapalooza University, Moon River University, Summer Camp, and ACL, require colleges to develop a 3-credit class, culminating in on-site activations at festivals where students meet artists, agents, and managers.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, we’ve intentionally included HBCUs and Community Colleges alongside high-level music business programs in Festival University, which has now operated 15 times. Hundreds of students have earned academic credit, gained valuable industry introductions, and contributed to the growing enthusiasm among colleges, festivals, and students for what lies ahead.
“This belief in the power of education and mentorship led to the creation of our We Launch program, which has since helped over 75 students launch their careers. But our journey didn't end there. Recognizing the unique opportunity festivals present as learning environments, we founded Festival University.”
— Jeff McClusky
