Happy Spring! As the school year and program year begin to wind down, we hope that you will each find some much deserved rest, relaxation and renewal. The theme for this spring issue focuses on restoring wellness within yourself. Our Voices from the District articles authored by Laura Odden Quaintance (Northwest) and Amy Jo Cherner (Metro East) take different approaches to this theme.
The Legacy article, authored by Diana J. Leland, features the life and work of Dr. Mary Kay Geston. Mary Kay shares words of wisdom and reflects on her work with a wide variety of choirs and leadership roles and service to ACDA. Speaking of legacy and service, you must also read the Farewell Message from our Executive Director, Bruce Becker, as he reflects on an ACDA leadership career that spans 46 years. The Inside ACDA article and the FMC Endowment Fund article are both expertly authored by Bruce.
The Star Program for this issue spotlights Mounds Park Academy under the direction of John Habermann. The Home Sweet Home article highlights Seana Graber who is teaching at her alma mater, Luverne Middle School and High School. The Commissioning Corner provides insight into Tesfa Wondemagegnehu’s recently premiered commissioned work To Repair with the University of Michigan Men’s Glee Club.
Gerald Gurss, a member of our DEI committee, wrote a Guest Feature that focuses on building trusting relationships within our ensembles. The Student Chapter Forum article, authored by Kira Haler Knutson, focuses on starting and/or revitalizing ACDA student chapters. Still looking for some inspiration? Be certain to read the Scholarship Sketches, 5 Words or Less, ACE Inspirations, and the Pick Six articles that are authored by our repertoire and resource chairs.
After serving for three years as the Managing Editor of the Star of the North, I am planning to step away as Richard Carrick will step into this role in the coming year. Thank you to the many authors and editors who have contributed to the Star of the North over the past three years. It has been a pleasure to work with such a fine group of associate editors this past year in Miriam Augsberger, Richard Carrick, Erik Doucette, Denise Friesen-Carper, Kira Haler Knutson, and Garrett Lathe. May you all continue to thrive and find some time to restore wellness within yourself.
Cover Photo by Macro Mama on StockSnap