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Dr. Tatiana Taylor, Director of Choirs at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) earned the 2020 Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce (MRCC) Excellence in Education Award. This distinguished honor is awarded to area educators who demonstrate exceptional and innovative capabilities in their educational fields. Taylor represented NEO alongside a Miami Public School educator.

Dr. Taylor joined NEO five years ago as the Director of Choirs and Vocal Music. During that time, she has paved the way for NEO students to perform with several high-profile artists, including four-time Grammy Nominee Steve Green and recording artist Elizabeth Montgomery.

“We are very proud that the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce selected Dr. Taylor for the Excellence in Education award,” said NEO President Dr. Kyle Stafford. “She cares deeply about her students and pushes them to grow their musical talent. NEO Choir continues to flourish under her direction, and we certainly appreciate the work she does for our students, campus, and our community.”

During the pandemic, Dr. Taylor has worked alongside NEO administrators to ensure vocal education could continue at NEO in a safe and effective way. Through the purchase of specialty masks, online sessions, distanced performances, and much more, the NEO Choirs thrived during the period of adversity.

“I am very honored that NEO nominated me for consideration for this award,” said Dr. Taylor. “I am truly grateful to work with such a supportive group of educators and administrators.”

Dr. Taylor earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn., her Master of Arts in Choral Conducting from the University of Oklahoma, and her Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Music from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. As a member of the Choral Director’s Association, the National Collegiate Choral Organization, and the National Association for Music Education, she is dedicated to continued study and research in the areas of world music and the impact of native language on choral singing. Dr. Taylor enjoys getting to know the students in her program and focuses on not only helping them develop as performers, but also as individuals.

“My hope is that when student’s leave my program, they are equipped with excellent and well-rounded musicianship skills along with a greater sense of empathy for others.” (Photo from left: Brad Walker, Jennifer Walker, Meghan Jean Sharp, Adam Compton, Dr. Tatiana Taylor, Spencer Taylor, Mackenzie Stackle, First Lady Kim Stafford, President Kyle Stafford)


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