Indianapolis, Indiana – The University of Indianapolis Music Department earned statewide recognition this year after receiving multiple honors at the Indiana Music Educators Association Conference, highlighting the program’s continued influence in music education and student leadership across Indiana.
The annual conference brings together music educators from across the state to celebrate excellence in teaching, performance, and professional development. During this year’s event, UIndy stood out with awards that recognized both faculty achievement and the promise of its future educators.
Dr. Laurie Williams, director of music education and orchestra at UIndy, was named Collegiate Educator of Excellence. The honor reflects her leadership in preparing future music teachers and her long-standing commitment to mentorship, advocacy, and hands-on learning. Students and colleagues alike credit her for fostering a supportive environment that balances high expectations with encouragement and care.
UIndy students also received recognition at the conference. Music education majors Christopher Gonima ’26 and Casey Adams ’26 were named Outstanding Future Music Educators, an award given to students who demonstrate strong potential in the classroom and a clear dedication to the teaching profession. The recognition places both students among a select group of emerging educators statewide.
For Adams, the award served as more than a moment of celebration. He described it as a reflection point in his ongoing journey toward becoming an effective and meaningful music educator.
“While earning this award has definitely been a confidence boost for my teaching abilities, it’s mainly served as a great reminder and motivator that I am not an outstanding music educator, yet, but if I continue on the path I’m on, I very well could be,” said Adams.
Beyond individual honors, the University of Indianapolis’ collegiate chapter of the National Association for Music Education also earned top recognition. UIndy cNAfME was named Indiana Chapter of the Year, marking another milestone for the student-led organization. The chapter is a registered student organization advised by Dr. Williams and focuses on professional development, service, and community engagement.
The award reflects consistent effort from student members who organize workshops, outreach activities, and service projects throughout the academic year. These initiatives are designed to help students connect classroom learning with real-world teaching experiences while giving back to schools and communities.
Dr. Rebecca Sorley, chair of the music department and professor of music, said the chapter’s repeated success speaks to its strength and dedication.
“Our collegiate chapter of the National Association for Music Education is very strong at UIndy,” said Dr. Sorley. “Chapters around the state are assessed for their work in professional development and service to the community. Because chapters that win the award are not eligible in the subsequent year, we have won in 2020, 2022, 2024, and now 2026!”
Faculty members say the recognition reflects a broader culture within the music department that values collaboration, service, and growth. By combining strong instruction with active student involvement, the department continues to shape educators who are prepared to lead music programs across Indiana and beyond.
As UIndy celebrates these achievements, students and faculty alike say the focus remains on the future—continuing to learn, teach, and serve through the power of music education.
