Music Education Professor Receives McKendree's Grandy Faculty Award
Alumni Association Honors Dr. Jennifer Moder-Bell
(LEBANON, Ill., May 6, 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.” He announced the award during a staff and faculty virtual gathering
on May 1.
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.
The Lebanon, Ill., resident 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.
Dr. Jennifer Moder-Bell, associate professor of music education, is the McKendree University Alumni Association’s 2020 Grandy Faculty Award honoree.
-McK-
