IMEA Recognition Awards

Annually, the Indiana Music Education Association recognizes individuals whose work has made a positive impact in music education in Indiana.  Honorees are recognized at the IMEA Professional Development Conference.

Nomination forms will be open from August 1 to September 25 each year.

ONLY those nominations using these forms will be considered.  Multiple nominations for the same person are allowed in any given year, but do not necessarily increase the nominee’s chances of being selected. While candidates may be submitted in multiple years, please refrain from nominating a candidate for any award they have received in the past (check the lists of previous winners provided below).

Award categories include:

Indiana Music Educators of Excellence

The Indiana Music Educator of Excellence Awards recognize music teachers in each of the five following areas:  Elementary, Middle School/Junior High, High School, *Multi-Level, and College/University. These awards will be presented to individuals who have exemplified outstanding achievement in the field of music education. Factors that will be considered when selecting the award winners will include a record of excellence over multiple years of teaching and contributions to students as well as the music education profession.

*The “Multi-Level” award is new for 2025 and is designed to recognize outstanding educators who currently teach at two or more of the other listed age levels.

Indiana Administrator of Excellence

The Administrator of Excellence Award gives recognition to an individual who has contributed and supported the advancement of music education in his/her local school corporation(s) through his/her leadership.  Membership in IMEA is not required for this award.

IMEA Community Impact Award

The Community Impact Award is designed to give recognition to an individual who has contributed to music education within their community by encouraging lifelong musicianship and going above and beyond to support music education for musicians of all ages. Their achievements don't necessarily meet the statewide and national requirements for the Hoosier Musician Award, and they're not currently teaching in a school setting, but they powerfully and positively impact music participation at the local level. Membership in IMEA is not required for this award.

Hoosier Musician Award

The Hoosier Musician Award is designed to give recognition to an individual who has contributed to the advancement of music education in the state of Indiana, and who has contributed outstanding service to local, state, and national music organizations.  Membership in IMEA is not required for this award.