As a first-generation college student, I never imagined I would become a college professor. When I chose my career, I actually chose teaching first and music second. I applied to only two colleges—one for math education and one for music education. When I started college, I was convinced I would become a high school choir director. Ironically, I’ve never taught a choir class.
During my first year, I realized something was missing. Having grown up playing violin as well as several band instruments, I missed being surrounded by the sound of an instrumental ensemble. I loved singing and choral music, but nothing compared to the energy and sonic impact of sitting inside a large ensemble. By my junior year, I was performing in both orchestra and band—on different instruments—and I took my first conducting class. I knew before I ever walked into the classroom that I would love conducting, and I was right. Rather than continuing in the choral conducting sequence, I switched to instrumental conducting. Before student teaching, I had completed two years of conducting classes, participated in a conducting workshop, and competed in a conducting competition. By then, I knew I had found what I wanted to do.
At first, I wasn’t sure whether band or orchestra would become my focus. I loved both. As someone whose first favorite composer was Stravinsky, I suppose it makes sense that I’ve always been drawn to music that looks forward rather than backward. I enjoy discovering new repertoire, championing living composers, and exploring fresh ideas. Somewhere along the way, I also realized that most of my closest friends were wind and brass players. Band had quietly become home. These were my people, and this was the music I wanted to dedicate my life to.
After completing my undergraduate degree, I earned a Master of Music in Wind Conducting, an experience that challenged me, stretched me, and confirmed I was on the right path. I then spent six years teaching high school band in Michigan, along with middle school band and high school orchestra. Those years taught me what it means to build relationships, create culture, and help students discover their potential through music.
I later returned to school to pursue a Doctor of Musical Arts in Wind Conducting at the University of Michigan—a place I had dreamed about attending but never thought I would. After earning my doctorate, I accepted my first collegiate position at the University of Nebraska Omaha as Assistant Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands. It was an incredible first faculty position. I had the opportunity to build and lead athletic bands, conduct university ensembles, teach conducting and music education courses, and develop lasting professional relationships. Those five years were foundational to the educator and conductor I am today.
I then had the opportunity to return to the University of Michigan as Associate Director of Bands. When I graduated with my DMA, I never imagined I would one day come back to a place that had meant so much to me. Yet here I am. Today, I have the privilege of serving as Chair of the Conducting Department while working alongside outstanding colleagues who care deeply about music, teaching, and our students.
One of the greatest joys of my career has been the opportunity to work with exceptional student musicians. I am incredibly proud of the University of Michigan Concert Band and the level of artistry, professionalism, and heart they bring to every rehearsal and performance. It is a truly special ensemble. I’ve also had the privilege of leading ensembles in performances at regional and international conferences, experiences that have showcased the remarkable dedication and artistry of my students.
Beyond my work on the podium, I’ve been fortunate to serve the profession in leadership roles, including as President of Women Band Directors International and as Chair of the Research Committee for the College Band Directors National Association. These opportunities have reinforced my commitment to strengthening our profession and supporting the next generation of music educators and conductors.
Over the course of my career, my interests have expanded beyond conducting ensembles. I have become passionate about increasing women’s representation in our profession, commissioning and performing works by diverse composers, and finding more meaningful ways to connect with students through conducting and rehearsal. Over the past five years, I’ve also become a strong advocate for improvisation in the large ensemble. I believe every student should have the opportunity to improvise, regardless of their background or future career path. That belief led me to create Emergence, a commissioning initiative that supports new works for concert band that incorporate improvisation at every level of experience.
I also love guest conducting and working with students and teachers around the world. While making music together is always rewarding, what I enjoy most is helping others discover new possibilities—whether that’s inspiring students to become more engaged performers or encouraging colleagues to think differently about rehearsal, repertoire, and the impact we can have on the next generation of musicians.
Looking back, I never could have imagined this path. Looking ahead, I can’t wait to see where music—and the students I have the privilege to teach—will lead next.