From the Executive Director

A major focus of our efforts over the past year has been in the development of partnerships with organizations that both share OMEA’s mission and complement our existing resources in ways that provide additional support for our members and their students. We have continued our formal partnership with the National Federation of High School Associations (NFHS) for which OMEA Member Brandon DuVall is a member of the music committee. NFHS provides many resources for our organization and for members of OMEA. These include several virtual professional development opportunities and organizational resources. We continue to strengthen our connection with the Arts Education Partnership (AEP), a national network committed to making the arts an essential part of every student’s education. AEP builds leadership, shares research and policy, and fosters collaboration to ensure all students have access to high-quality arts experiences. I’m honored to represent OMEA on the AEP advisory board.

The most visible parts of our work—adjudicated events, conferences, and advocacy—often take center stage. But just as important are the behind-the-scenes efforts that keep OMEA strong and sustainable. Much of this progress happens quietly: updating policies to ensure they meet the principles of a 21st century OMEA, reviewing operations for alignment with today’s nonprofit standards, and examining our organizational structure to meet the needs of today’s educators. These efforts may not draw the spotlight, but they are essential to keeping OMEA accountable and forward-looking.

I first became aware of the word “advocacy” early in my career—before it was a standard part of our music education lexicon. Sometimes it makes teachers cringe and feel that it is yet another task on an already-too-long task list. However, out of necessity, advocacy is at the heart of OMEA’s work. In the year ahead, we are expanding our efforts at the national, state, and local levels. This includes meeting directly with legislators, cultivating meaningful relationships with policymakers, and providing educators with practical tools to advocate for their own programs. Our commitment also extends to school districts with underserved populations, where we are working to better support teachers and students through outreach and resources tailored to their needs.

The Ohio Foundation for Music Education (OFME) exists to support OMEA members and their students while helping secure the future of music education in Ohio. Through scholarships—like those for All-State participants and the Edith M. Keller Memorial Student-Teaching Scholarship—as well as initiatives that strengthen membership, expand professional growth, and reach more students, the Foundation invests directly in the work we all value.

As we look ahead, may we continue to draw strength from one another and from the work that connects us. The impact you make in your classrooms and communities each day is profound, and OMEA remains committed to walking alongside you in that work. Together, we will keep building spaces where students find joy, purpose, and possibility through music. We are OMEA!