©2023 Ohio Music Education Association
FROM THE DESK
From the President
From the President
Dan Ruckman
President
SHARE ARTICLE:
I began outlining this article before the OMEA Professional Development Conference, and my initial plan revolved around the impressive trade show, outstanding sessions, and exemplary performances – the typical highlights of this event. However, the transformative nature of the conference, much like what I experienced attending in my early days of teaching, took me on an unexpected journey.
It was on a quiet Sunday, post-conference, as I scrolled through my Facebook feed that the true essence of the OMEA PDC became apparent. What emerged from the myriad of posts wasn't just praise for the well-executed event or insights gained from sessions, but a common thread that wove through every post – CONNECTION.
The OMEA PDC stands as one of the largest music education conferences in the country, boasting thousands in attendance. Yet, despite the sheer magnitude, the prevailing sentiment was an overwhelming sense of closeness and connection within our shared field. Expressions of gratitude towards those orchestrating the conference, coupled with newfound insights into teaching and learning, all pointed to a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness. Thank you to our performers, clinicians, OMEA staff, Trustees, volunteers, and attendees for making this year’s Conference one to remember!
I hope everyone is refreshed, recharged, and ready for an exciting Spring. This March is Music in Our Schools Month, and I encourage everyone to celebrate and share all of the great music making you and your students are doing! Don’t forget NAfME has many great resources at https://nafme.org/student-opportunities/music-in-our-schools-month/
Dan Ruckman is currently in his twenty sixth year of teaching and serving his twentieth year as the Director of Bands at Coldwater Exempted Village Schools where he directs the 5-12 concert bands, marching and pep band, Cavalier Steel Bands, and music theory. He has served OMEA as a solo and ensemble adjudicator, Past-President of OMEA District 3, and State Secretary. Dan is a member of the National Association for Music Education, Ohio Music Education Association, and Phi Beta Mu. Dan holds a bachelor of music education degree and a master of music in education degree from Bowling Green State University.
