By Chris Dietrich
Mentoring students’ voices for the last 35 years, choir and piano teacher Ms. Anne Dawson has been the longest serving member of Westmoore staff, cherishing each moment spent making a positive impact on the lives of her students.
Nothing brings Ms. Dawson more fulfillment and happiness than being able to nurture her students and bring them joy through music. “I love it when the students get excited about something we’re doing, or excited about how they sound,” Ms. Dawson said.
Her musical career began in high school, which was influenced by her parents, who were both music professors at Truman State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in music education. Ms. Dawson later attended Oklahoma University for graduate school in vocal performance and became a teacher afterwards.
As an educator, she has been able to give students incredible opportunities, something especially important to her. “The past 3 years I have been able to expose the kids to works with orchestra and pipe organ, something that they may never get to do post-high school,” Ms. Dawson said.
Ms. Dawson was given the immense honor of being inducted into the Oklahoma Music Educators’ Hall of Fame that was held on the first night of the Oklahoma State Music Educators Association (OKMEA) state music convention. The OKMEA state music convention is an astonishing annual event that features band, orchestra, and choral topics as well as showcasing student performers and an exhibit hall. This convention allowed for educators to connect with each other through a shared passion for music. Ms. Dawson received the award of being listed in the hall of fame. “There were a lot of awards given to teachers who have done an exemplary job, and hall of fame was the last award,” Ms. Dawson said.
During the convention, Ms. Dawson watched as remarkable teachers received rewards and recognition at the reception. Her hard work, dedication and love for job as a teacher and mentor are few examples of how she earned such a high honor. “I had to prepare an acceptance speech, which made me nervous, but it was nice to get to thank people who have helped me in my career,” Ms. Dawson said.
