Outstanding Graduate from the Department of Music: Heather Drusedum
Heather Drusedum is from Henderson, Nevada, and she majored in Secondary Music Education with a Choral Emphasis.
Heather has always had a love of music and working with children. She says, “I believe that every child should have access to music education. I know that music changes lives, because it has changed mine for the better. My fondest memories, experiences, and friendships are because of being in choir. Music has the capacity to deepen social and emotional skills while exploring cross-curricular subjects. I wholeheartedly believe that music is one of the most important classes a student can take.”
During her time at NAU, she has had many mentors. She would like to specifically thank Professor Christine Graham, Dr. Ryan Holder, and Dr. Tim Westerhaus for their guidance and the care that they have put into her education. She says, “These professors have challenged me to become a better musician and a better person, even on days when I felt insecure about my abilities. I am indebted to them for everything they have selflessly given me during my time at NAU.”
Heather plans to student teach in Las Vegas, Nevada, in the fall. After student teaching, she hopes to start teaching middle school choir somewhere on the East Coast and eventually move on to high school choir. Heather plans to get her Master’s in Administration so that she can become a School District Fine Arts Coordinator to help make sure that students have access to a quality music education.