I went to Grove City College and graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor of Music Education. I majored in music and education with an emphasis on voice

My favorite subject in school was Science and choir, of course.

My HS Choir teacher had such a huge positive influence on my life, and my favorite memories from that time always centered around singing in choir and musical theater. The choir room was always such a safe space where I could be myself and I knew that was something that I could love doing every day.

The best thing about being a choir teacher is getting to usually have the same students for years at a time. I can get to know them well and create a space where they can thrive. It’s amazing to watch them grow up from middle school through graduation.

Saying goodbye at graduation is always the worst. I feel like I am saying goodbye to family members. On a less serious note, the worst thing is when I lose my voice and have to try and sing all day lol.

I was always a soprano in high school and college, but my favorite part to sing is alto. I love the beauty and depth that harmony provides in music. It adds the sparkle factor…yes, I just said sparkle factor…it’s a real thing.

Our groups are already sounding great, and the potential is huge. I am excited to see what we can tackle without masks on, and I am also super thrilled to be taking senior, Evan Cotelesse to take part in the NAfME All-National Mixed Chorus. He placed in the top 30 in the US on his voice part, and I am pretty sure is the first choral member to achieve this honor. The festival will be held in November in National Harbor, MD!