UIndy Collegiate National Association for Music Education Earns National Awards
The UIndy Collegiate National Association for Music Education (cNAfME) chapter earned national recognition for its commitment to professional development, advocacy, and student success. The chapter has received national honors at the annual National Association for Music Educators (NAfME) conference for three consecutive years.
Excellence in Professional Development
The UIndy cNAfME was one of six chapters to earn a National Professional Development award. The award recognizes chapters that provide exceptional professional development opportunities for future music educators.
The chapter’s year-round programming combines leadership training, service, and real-world classroom experience. Throughout the year, members participate in workshops on topics ranging from interview preparation to folk music and dance while attending professional conferences to build connections within Indiana’s music education community.
One of the chapter’s signature initiatives is its partnership with the Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA). After receiving adjudication training, UIndy students evaluate performances for Indianapolis Public Schools students who are unable to participate in the traditional ISSMA Solo and Ensemble competition due to financial barriers.
“The students benefit in numerous ways,” said Dr. Rebecca Sorley, chair of the Department of Music. “They learn best practices in adjudication while providing an important service that expands access to meaningful musical experiences for young students.”
Advocacy in Action
Professional development for UIndy’s cNAfME members extends beyond workshops and classrooms.
During the NAfME National Conference, student leaders joined the Indiana Music Education Association (IMEA) in meeting with state and federal lawmakers, including U.S. Senator Todd Young of Indiana, advocating for the continued importance of music education in schools.
Music Education alumna Shaina Liv Lescano, advocacy chair for IMEA and a music teacher in Lawrence Township Schools, helped lead the legislative visits.
Shannon Kelly Kane Scholarship
Ethan Hacker ’27 (Music Education) was one of two future music educators in the nation to receive the Shannon Kelly Kane Award.
The Shannon Kelly Kane Scholarship was created by Shannon’s family and friends in coordination with NAfME to honor her exemplary life and her love of teaching music. The scholarship award is open to current NAfME Collegiate members who have been nominated for NAfME Collegiate Professional Achievement Recognition.
“It has been a privilege to watch Ethan grow in his ability to lead others and share his enthusiasm for the music profession,” said Dr. Laurie Williams, director of music education programs and faculty advisor for UIndy cNAfME. “Ethan has been passionate about sharing important issues concerning music education in Indiana with students and professionals alike.”
Hacker’s commitment to expanding access to the arts has shaped UIndy’s campus and community. He has served as a leader with UIndy’s Music for All Abilities camp, which brings musicians with special needs to campus to create their art alongside UIndy faculty, staff, and students. Hacker has also been an active advocate for music education, communicating with state and federal lawmakers and organizing cNAfME trips to the Indiana Statehouse for advocacy events, including the Indiana State Teachers Association Day of Action.
“I am incredibly honored to represent the State of Indiana at the NAfME National Assembly this year,” said Hacker. “I see receiving this award as a win for the university and proof that our music department is doing great things.”
Hacker was also honored with the NAfME Collegiate Professional Achievement Award, recognizing his leadership, service, and commitment to the music education profession.