Orzolek
Douglas Orzolek, Ph.D., associate professor and director of Graduate Programs in Music Education, received the Minnesota Music Education Association (MMEA) Hall of Fame Award during their Midwinter Clinic. The ceremony was held Feb. 13 at the Minneapolis Hilton. The award is given in recognition for significant career contributions and service to music education in Minnesota.
Up to six nominees may receive the award each year, and Orzolek was the only award winner this year.
To be nominated, a candidate must be a current member of MMEA-NAfME (unless deceased) and must be an active music educator or administrator in music education in a Minnesota public or private school or institution of higher learning for at least 10 years who has made significant contributions to the music education profession. Candidates need at least three letters of recommendation; Orzolek received the most letters of recommendation in the history of the award.
"I am very proud and excited for Doug to receive this award," said Matthew George, Music Department chair. "He has done so much for music education in the state of Minnesota and beyond, and as such, is highly deserving of this honor. This is great for him and for St. Thomas."
