Wisconsin Music Educators Association (WMEA) Awards Overview
Recognizing people who make a difference is one of the most rewarding activities for any organization. Wisconsin Music Educators Association sponsors several awards to recognize people who have sustained a commitment to music education and made a positive impact in the school, community or state. Even if you do not submit a nomination, we urge you to express your appreciation to the many people who assist you in bringing quality music experiences to your school and community.
Service Awards
- Community Service Award
- Distinguished Administrator Award
- Distinguished School Board Member Award
- Government Leadership Award
- Music Industry Award
- Michael G George Distinguished Service Award
Additional Awards & Recognition
- Melvin F Pontious Creative Sparks in Music Education Award
- Richard G Gaarder Award
- 25 Years of Service Recognition
- Wisconsin Award for Excellence in Teaching Music (WMEA/WSMA co-sponsored)
If you wish to nominate a deserving individual for one of these awards, links are provided on each of the individual award pages. Only complete nomination packets will be considered.
2023 Wisconsin Music Educators Association Award Recipients
Richard G. Gaarder Award
Adam LuMaye – UW-Milwaukee
Cassidy DeWitt – UW-River Falls
Distinguished Administrator Award
Joshua Fiege – Prescott
Community Service Award
Fiona Nicolaisen – Milwaukee
Wisconsin Award for Excellence in Teaching Music (Presented by WSMA & WMEA)
Shawn Gudmunsen – St. Croix Falls
Distinguished School Board Member Award
Chuck Draxler – Glenwood City
Barbara Herzog – Oshkosh
Music Industry Award
Todd & DeDe Heid – Appleton
Melvin F. Pontious Creative Sparks in Music Education Award
Northwoods Marching Band
Benjamin Burish – DC Everest Junior High
Joseph Finnegan – DC Everest High School
Austin Kappel – Antigo High School
Forrest Mann – Northland Pines High School
Bethany Puffer – Three Lakes High School
William Richter – Lakeland Union High School
Typer Schuster – Mosinee High School
Elli Wilk – Merrill High School