Dr. Jennifer Moder-Bell Receives 2020 Grandy Faculty Award

Alumni Association Honors Music Education Professor

Lebanon, IL (05/08/2020) — Dr. Jennifer Moder-Bell, a music education professor at McKendree University, has received the 2020 Grandy Faculty Award, given annually by the Alumni Association to recognize commitment to students, the ideals promoted by the university and participation in the community it serves. Alumni Association President Ryan Furniss described her as "a dynamic and inspiring teacher" known for her "delightful disposition, strong sense of collegiality and unwavering can-do spirit."

Moder-Bell coordinates the music education program and directs both the Concert Band and Wind Ensemble. Beyond the classroom, she supports students in co-curricular activities and frequently works with them to showcase their accomplishments. She also demonstrates an ambitious commitment to growing enrollment by creating numerous on and off-campus recruiting events, which help prospective students learn about and experience all that McKendree offers.

She joined the university faculty in 2013 and was promoted to associate professor and awarded tenure in 2019. She earned an Interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy, Music Education and Curriculum and Instruction degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City; a master's degree in music education from Illinois State University; and a bachelor's degree in music education from the University of Illinois.

She is the 39th recipient of the Grandy Faculty Award. It is named for Dr. William Norman Grandy, who served from 1952 to 1968 as professor of philosophy and religion, and as dean of students, academic dean and interim president.

Media Attachments