If you are a regular on the Gold shuttle route, chances are high that Joe Bumpus steered you safely to your destination. He's been driving UCSF learners, staff, faculty, clinicians, and patients around San Francisco for five years.
While driving is his profession, and he enjoys the "peaceful" environment it offers, his free time is much more energetic and groovy. Growing up Akron, Ohio, church was a regular weekend event for his family. One day, his dad bought an organ, which captured Joe's interest enough to learn to play it. "I think it (piano) chose me. It was the premier instrument at the church–the organ, the piano, keyboards, that type of thing, and I was just fascinated by it," he says. Years later, the piano is still a big part of his life, and music keeps his family tight.
When discussing his preferred musical genre, Joe unequivocally chooses Gospel. However, he also finds joy in ballets, noting that they "just make you feel so good." As a sixteen-year-old, Joe was captivated by "Endless Love" by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross. This song remains one of his favorite tunes to play.
Beyond music, Joe has a deep love for cars, especially convertibles, and he has a keen interest in fashion and design, often shopping for his wife's wardrobe. His impeccable sense of style is evident in his performance attire, often seen in a stylish red blazer.
The musical talent runs deep in Joe's family. As a toddler, his son picked up drumming in church and now plays locally, and has even played with Lady Gaga. Joe's wife, blessed with the voice of an angel, sings at the church while Joe accompanies her on the piano. Besides an occasional vacation, they always attend the Sunday service.
If you're lucky, you can hear Joe playing on the Rutter Center piano. He stops by there for an occasional break or to figure out a tune that's been on his mind.
Fun fact: there are three pianos at UCSF, all managed by Arts and Events.
