The Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) honored Western Kentucky University music faculty and alumni at the annual KMEA In-Service Professional Development Conference that was held in Louisville, KY. They were presented these awards at the Gala Conference Banquet on Feb. 9, 2007.

Sheila Smalling, WKU '85 & '89 alum, Middle School Teacher of the Year. Ms. Smalling is currently the Band Director at Drakes Creek Middle School in Bowling Green. John Cipolla, WKU Music Faculty member since 2002, College/University Teacher of the Year. Dr. Cipolla has recently issued a jazz CD, in collaboration with David Livingston, entitled /Misbehavin'./ Lisa Hussung, WKU Adjunct Music Faculty member since 2002, Elementary School Teacher of the Year. Ms. Hussung currently is the Music Specialist at Richpond Elementary School.

(Left - Right: Shelia Smalling, John Cipolla and Lisa Hussung)

The Music Alumni Reunion on November 17-18, 2006, was a blast! We held it in conjunction with the Founders Day Concert, the finale of the year-long Centennial Celebration on the Hill. After the concert on Friday, Nov. 17, music alumni went to a post-concert party at Garrett Ballroom, and were serenaded by WKU Faculty Jazz Quintet. Nov. 18 was filled with alumni choir and alumni band rehearsals in preparation for the football pre-game performance, followed by good food, good friends, good memories and more parties. Don't miss the next one! Click here to view more Fall 2006 reunion pictures.