Roseanne Rosenthal Award
In June 2010, the Alumni Association Board of Directors voted to confer an annual award recognizing the accomplishments of VanderCook alumni in the early stages of their teaching careers. The Roseanne Rosenthal Excellence in Teaching Award was established to honor alumni who have made outstanding contributions to music education in the first five years of their professional lives. VanderCook’s president, Charlie Menghini, commended the board’s decision. “The Roseanne Rosenthal Award is a wonderful addition to the college's recognition program. Dr. Rosenthal's contributions to the college have played an important role in the institution’s re-emergence as a leader in music education.” he said. “This award will certainly mean a great deal to all who receive it and will inspire VanderCook alumni to continue to bring excellence in teaching, strength in character, and a passion for music to their classrooms."
Alumni are encouraged to present candidates for consideration to the alumni board. A faculty committee reviews all nominations and selects the recipient. The award is presented annually at the Alumni Meeting and Reception.
RECIPIENTS
2011
Andrew Collins B.M.Ed. 2006
Collins is a member of the music faculty at Metea Valley High School in Aurora, IL where he conducts the Cecillian Singers, Bass Chorus, and Varsity Singers, in addition to Madrigals and Vocal Jazz. He also teaches AP Music Theory. Before teaching at Metea, Collins served from 2006-2011 as Director of Choirs and Music Theory at H.D. Jacobs High School in Algonquin, IL. Choral ensembles under his direction received many honors - including two invitations to perform at the IMEA All-State Conference and an invitation to perform at the National School Board Association's National Conference, held in San Diego, CA. Collins also serves as one of two IMEA District IX Chorus Representatives and holds professional affiliations with IMEA, MENC, and ACDA.
2010
Adam Hill B.M.Ed. 2005
The inaugural Roseanne Rosenthal Excellence in Teaching award was presented to Adam Hill. Hill is the band director at Romeoville High School in Romeoville IL. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Hill is a member of the Chicago Bears drum line and the Chicago Bulls “Stampede” drum line, and is currently the director and music arranger of the Pioneer Indoor and Independent WGI marching percussion ensembles. He continues to arrange music, judge, clinic, and teach at schools throughout the Chicagoland area.