2025 NYSSMA® Awards
NYSSMA Presidential Citation Award
Fredonia Central School District – 2025
One of the most meaningful honors bestowed by NYSSMA is the Presidential Citation Award, recognizing a district that exemplifies what is possible when access, equity, vision, and commitment come together in service of students. In 2025, one of the two recipients is the Fredonia Central School District.
Fredonia is a rural district of approximately 1,500 students. Nearly a decade ago, district leaders recognized that increasing economic need could become a barrier to music participation. Rather than wait, they acted—launching an instrument inventory initiative and later committing $200,000 in American Rescue Plan funds to ensure that a child’s financial circumstances would never determine their access to music. Today, Fredonia fully funds instruments, performance apparel, and participation in NYSSMA Solo Festivals, Major Organization Festivals, and All-County and Honor Ensembles—covering 100% of participation costs for students.
As a result, students engage in extraordinary musical opportunities. They take college-level music courses, compose original works, conduct ensembles, and collaborate with faculty from SUNY Fredonia and professional artists. Music educators work across disciplines, connect music to history and culture, mentor younger students through programs like Band Buddies and String Buddies, and bring the community together—most memorably during COVID, when more than 400 residents joined a virtual tribute to essential workers.
Fredonia’s commitment has never wavered. Even in challenging budget cycles, music programs and equity funding were preserved in full. The district has been named a GRAMMY Signature School Semifinalist and continues to be a model of what sustained support for music education can achieve.
The NYSSMA Presidential Citation Award is about more than recognition—it honors a community that has built something truly exceptional: a program where every child belongs, teachers are empowered, and every concert celebrates equity, creativity, and community.
Congratulations to Superintendent Brad Zilliox, the Board of Education, the music faculty, Department Chair Andrew Bennett, and—most importantly—the students and families of the Fredonia Central School District. Your work reminds us why this matters.
2025 NYSSMA Presidential Citation Award
Manhasset School District
The Manhasset School District exemplifies what is possible when the arts, strong leadership, and unwavering community support come together.
Serving just over 3,100 students in a suburban community, Manhasset has built a music program that is both expansive and personal, reaching learners from kindergarten through grade 12 with intention, inclusion, and innovation. Under the leadership of Dr. Joseph Owens, Director of Fine and Performing Arts, the program is guided by creativity, collaboration, and clarity of purpose.
Ensembles are high-quality, numerous, and accessible at every level. Curriculum development is ongoing and intentional, with a district-wide focus on vertical alignment and instructional excellence. Regular collaboration, professional learning, and reflective practice keep instruction current and relevant. Students compose, arrange, and produce original works in a state-of-the-art recording studio and keyboard lab, with interdisciplinary learning central to the Manhasset experience.
The district is also a model for supporting teacher growth and leadership. Faculty attend and present at NYSSMA and Orff conferences and serve on county and state committees. The Board of Education protects music funding, administrators actively support scheduling and professional development, and the broader community—parents, civic groups, and local businesses—champions the program through attendance, fundraising, and partnership.
Both rigorous and progressive, inclusive and forward-thinking, the Manhasset School District stands as a beacon for what music education can and should be.
2025 NYSSMA Established Educator Award
Christina Pizzino-Catalano
The NYSSMA Established Educator Award recognizes outstanding PreK–12 music educators who exemplify excellence in our profession. One of two recipients this year is Christina Pizzino-Catalano, Director of Choral Studies at Niskayuna High School: a master educator, inspiring conductor, compassionate mentor, and a true force in choral music. For sixteen years, Ms. Pizzino-Catalano has built a program that transforms lives.
Christina creates safe, inclusive spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. Her classroom is a haven of respect, creativity, and joy. One student shared that simply walking past her choir room was the best part of their day—and those who know her understand why.
Her leadership during the pandemic was especially powerful. When schools closed, Ms. Pizzino-Catalano —alongside her husband, a truck, and a sound system—visited each of her graduating seniors at home, serenading them driveway by driveway so they felt celebrated in the absence of a final concert.
Colleagues call her the ultimate example of what NYSSMA stands for. Her mentor calls her the “cream rising to the top.” Her students call her “life changing.” As one colleague said, “She raises not only exceptional musicians, but exceptional human beings.”
For her extraordinary musicianship, selfless dedication, visionary leadership, and unwavering heart, Christina Pizzino-Catalano is the recipient of the 2025 NYSSMA Established Educator Award.
Ms. Deborah Cardona – NYSSMA Established Educator Award 2025
The 2025 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Established Educator Award is presented to an outstanding teacher, musician, and colleague—Ms. Deborah Cardona.
Deborah has been a music educator for more than twenty-eight years and has served at Booker T. Washington MS 54 since 2005, where she has built one of New York City’s most vibrant and inclusive public-school string programs. Through her vision and commitment, music is accessible to every student who walks through her door.
What truly stands out is her presence in the classroom. Orchestra classes of nearly fifty middle school students are focused, joyful, respectful, and deeply motivated.
Deborah has also made remarkable contributions to the Salute to Music program, a free Saturday morning music enrichment initiative sponsored by the New York City Department of Education’s Office of Arts and Special Projects.
What makes Ms. Cardona a standout candidate for this New York State honor is her humility and quiet strength. She does not seek recognition; she simply gives—to her students, her colleagues, and the greater musical community. She is one of those silent heroes—someone who has shaped lives and created opportunity through her devotion and her belief that music can change the world, one student, one experience, and one lesson at a time.
NYSSMA Early Career Achievement Award 2025
Megan Russell
The Early Career Achievement Award honors educators who, early in their careers, demonstrate exceptional skill, passion, and leadership—qualities that define excellence in music education.
Megan Russell began teaching in 2016 as Elementary Orchestra Director in the Vernon-Verona-Sherrill Central School District. Through integrity, dedication, and strong, carefully planned instruction, she has transformed the program into a thriving model of excellence. Her students describe her as encouraging and inspiring—someone who helps them take risks, build confidence, and grow through performance. Under her leadership, students regularly participate in NYSSMA Solo and Major Organization Festivals, with results that reflect the consistency and quality of her teaching.
Beyond the classroom, Megan serves as a liaison to the Performing Arts Boosters, a union building representative, and co-adviser to the elementary drama club. She performs with the Half Moon Orchestra, assists with the Rome Marching Band, and has served as Vice President of the Madison County Music Educators Association. She is also a committed string adjudicator and contributor to adjudicator training initiatives.
Colleagues describe Megan as exuberant, passionate, and deeply kind. Her rehearsals are filled with energy, laughter, and purpose, and her professionalism and advocacy reflect the very best of our association’s mission and values.
Megan Russell’s dedication to her students, her community, and her craft makes her a shining example of excellence in teaching and a deserving recipient of the 2025 NYSSMA Early Career Achievement Award.
NYSSMA 2025 Early Career Achievement Award
Kerri Kamping – Hicksville Public Schools
The NYSSMA Early Career Achievement Award honors exceptional PreK–12 music educators within their first five to fifteen years. This year, one of two recipients is Kerri Kamping of the Hicksville Public School District, whose work reflects the very best of our profession.
Ms. Kamping serves as Elementary Band Director and Elementary Music Coordinator, bringing energy, creativity, and deep care to her teaching. Her classroom is a space where students build joy, connection, and identity through music.
She also directs the High School Marching Band, leading the program to three consecutive New York State Marching Field Band Championships. Beyond accolades, Kerri fosters confidence, discipline, and camaraderie, challenging students while fully believing in and celebrating them—on and off the field. She has redesigned the district’s general music and band curriculum to ensure a vertically aligned, high-quality experience for all elementary students.
Kerri Kamping leads with integrity, vision, and inclusion. She is a champion for equity, working tirelessly to ensure every child has access to the life-changing power of music.
2025 NYSSMA Outstanding Urban School Award – IS 318 Junior High School
The NYSSMA Outstanding Urban School Award honors urban schools that exemplify high-quality music education. This year, we proudly recognize IS 318 Junior High School Eugenio Maria De Hostos, a Zone 12 NYC school in Brooklyn.
IS 318 serves students in grades 6–8, including Special Education, and is known for academic and extracurricular excellence. At the heart of its program is the music program, led by Ms. Jasmine Britt, whose vision and dedication drive its success. Ms. Britt coordinates winter and spring concerts in collaboration with dance, modern band, vocal, and cheer instructors, and oversees after-school ensembles including modern band and glee/vocal clubs. Every participating student receives sustained, rigorous, and inspiring instruction.
IS 318 integrates technology and reflection, with students recording biannual performance videos for self-assessment alongside live evaluations, developing musicianship, critical listening, and self-reflection skills. Students regularly participate in NYSSMA Solo and Ensemble Festivals, NYSSMA Majors, AREA All-State festivals, and special events such as a side-by-side concert with the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall.
The school also offers a free six-week summer band camp with meals and high-quality instruction, ensuring no financial barriers. Its ensembles have earned multiple Gold and Gold with Distinction ratings at NYSSMA Majors, and the program received a $10,000 award from the Barry Manilow Foundation to expand its reach.
IS 318 benefits from strong administrative support, prioritized daily band instruction, family outreach, and an engaged PTA. The school exemplifies an outstanding urban music program—rooted in excellence, equity, opportunity, and joy. Special recognition goes to Ms. Jasmine Britt for her inspiring leadership and unwavering dedication to the power of music education.
NYSSMA 2025 Outstanding Contributor Award – Reta Ebbets-Cerullo
We celebrate this year, Reta Ebbets-Cerullo, whose service to NYSSMA spans more than three decades. Reta’s journey began in 1994, when then-President Peter Brasch invited her to create a keepsake commemorating the All-State experience. That simple idea grew into a visionary marketing program that has defined how NYSSMA presents itself to the world.
As Marketing Chair, Reta didn’t just manage merchandise—she built a brand. Under her guidance, the NYSSMA emblem became a symbol of pride for students, educators, families, and communities. From sweatshirts and fleeces to lanyards and keychains, she curated a collection that reflected the professionalism, spirit, and excellence at the heart of NYSSMA’s mission.
Reta’s work was never about sales; it was mission driven. She amplified visibility, reinforced identity, and created a tangible connection between students and the larger music community. Over the years, she served under fourteen NYSSMA Presidents and five Executive Directors, each affirming her role and trusting her as a steadfast steward of NYSSMA’s legacy.
Beyond longevity, Reta’s impact is profound. She gave students more than souvenirs—she gave them memories, pride, and a sense of belonging. As Past President Peter Brasch said, “Her contributions have left an indelible mark on our organization.”
Reta continues her work to this day, serving alongside her husband, Dave Cerullo, as NYSSMA Co-Marketing Chairs, shaping the association’s identity with dedication, creativity, and heart. For her visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and enduring commitment to NYSSMA and the students we serve, we are proud to present the 2025 NYSSMA Outstanding Contributor Award to Reta Ebbets-Cerullo.
2025 NYSSMA Outstanding Contributor Award
Presented to Mr. Rudolph Tichy, Jr. – Twin Village Music, Lancaster, NY
Mr. Rudolph Tichy, Jr., owner of Twin Village Music in Lancaster, New York, has been a cornerstone of Western New York’s music community for decades. Twin Village Music is a full-service hub for students, educators, and professional musicians, and Rudy has built it into a trusted partner for music education and community support.
Mr. Tichy runs the store with dedication, hiring highly qualified teachers and providing thousands of students with instruction—particularly in preparation for NYSSMA solo festivals and school performances. He is an active member of NYSSMA, NAfME, ECMEA, and NAMM, bringing world-class musicians into local classrooms, including jazz artist Jim Snidero and clarinetist Julian Bliss.
For more than fifty years, Mr. Tichy has played principal trumpet in the Lancaster Town Band, served as its president, and contributed actively to the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce. Twin Village Music supports local schools through advertising, instrument repair during festival auditions, and countless other initiatives—always ensuring students have what they need to succeed.
Through his generosity, advocacy, and unwavering support of music and the arts, Rudy Tichy has created opportunities, inspired young musicians, and strengthened the fabric of our music education community. NYSSMA is proud to honor Rudy Tichy Jr. and Twin Village Music as a valued partner and friend in the mission of music education.
NYSSMA 2025 Outstanding Collegiate Educator Award
Dr. James McRoy
The NYSSMA Outstanding Collegiate Educator Award recognizes exceptional achievement and service in advancing music education across New York State’s colleges and universities.
For nearly four decades, Dr. James McRoy has shaped the musical lives of students from huis beginning at Hicksville High School to the concert stages of Long Island University—and across the globe. At LIU, he directs the University Wind Symphony and Jazz Ensemble, previously led the Wind Ensemble and Pep Band, and teaches conducting, instrumental methods, marching band techniques, and other music courses. He is a respected adjudicator for NYSSMA Majors, World Projects, Heritage Festivals, and the New York State Field Band Conference. He has also led five international performance tours to Poland, China, Puerto Rico, Australia, and Austria, expanding both student perspective and the global reach of New York’s collegiate music programs.
As Department Chair, Dr. McRoy led with compassion, clarity, and resolve—especially during the pandemic—advocating relentlessly for students and colleagues while singularly rebuilding the music and music education programs with vision grounded in preparation, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As one colleague shared, “As great of a musician and conductor he is, he is an even better person.” His generosity, mentorship, and passion have shaped generations of educators who carry his legacy forward.
Dr. McRoy is a teacher’s teacher, a leader’s leader, and a lifelong advocate for excellence in music education.
NYSSMA Outstanding Collegiate Educator Award – Dr. Eric Rubinstein
Dr. Eric Rubinstein’s career in music education has been shaped by a deep and lasting commitment to connection and community. From the moment he joined the faculty at Nazareth University, he began building bridges—reaching out to public school teachers across the Rochester region, offering his time and expertise generously, and listening closely to the needs of educators and students.
One of the clearest expressions of his leadership is the Nazareth Choral Invitational, a festival that reflects his inclusive, student-centered approach to programming. As a collegiate educator, Dr. Rubinstein brings great care and intention to preparing future music teachers. His student teachers emerge confident, capable, and compassionate, shaped by his thoughtful mentorship.
Whether programming diverse and meaningful repertoire, guiding the next generation of educators, or presenting at state conferences, Dr. Rubinstein consistently models servant leadership. His contributions to NYSSMA, NY-ACDA, and music education across New York State demonstrate a tireless commitment to quality, equity, and joy in music-making.
Dr. Rubinstein is, at his core, a connector. His former students speak of him not only as a professor, but as a mentor who remains present, supportive, and invested long after graduation. Through the network of colleagues, students, and friends he has cultivated, his influence continues to grow.
Dr. Eric Rubinstein’s impact will resonate for generations through the educators and musicians he has inspired.
NYSSMA® Recognizes All-State Chairpersons
Dr. Harold Goldstein – Band
Scott Cannan – Band (Assistant)
Andrew M. Benware – Chorus
Dennis Creighton – Chorus (Assistant)
Patricia Isenberg – Instrumental Jazz
David Lobenstein – Instrumental Jazz (Assistant)
Peter Guarino – Orchestra
Lia Call – Orchestra (Assistant)
Edward Reisert – Vocal Jazz
Dr. Morgan Jolley – Vocal Jazz (Assistant)
2025 NYSSMA Award Applications
NYSSMA® Awards 2024
2024-25 National Federation of State High Schools (NFHS)
Performing Arts Educator Award Recipients Announced
By NFHS on January 31, 2025 music directors & adjudicators article
A total of 59 individuals have been selected to receive Outstanding Performing Arts Educator Awards from the NFHS, including 25 with Outstanding Music Educator Awards, 23 with Outstanding Speech and Debate Educator Awards and 11 with Outstanding Theatre Awards.
The 25 music honorees include s 17 state recipients.
The Outstanding Music Educator Awards began in 1989, and 411 have been honored with state awards.
David Cerullo (New York)
David Cerullo has spent more than 40 years serving students and his colleagues in music education in New York. Currently serving as an adjunct professor at the Crane School of Music, Cerullo’s career is a model of service. As a band director and district administrator, Cerullo is celebrated as an exemplary leader, and as a resource for the New York State School Music Association, he has made significant contributions that will continue to inspire generations of music students.
NYSSMA Awards
Susan L. Weber, East Meadow – Chairperson
Help NYSSMA recognize:
- Presidential Citation/ Award of Excellence – for outstanding district-wide music programs
- Outstanding School Award – for outstanding music program in a building within the following cities: Buffalo, New York, Rochester, Syracuse and Yonkers
- Distinguished Service Award – for distinguished service to NYSSMA
- Outstanding Contributor Award – for an individual, business, or corporation supporting music education (non New York State music educator)
- Early Career Achievement Educator Award – contributions of music educators in New York State at the local level who have been in the field between 5 – 9 years
- Established Educator Award – distinguished service by music educators at the local level who have been in the field a minimum of 10 years
- Music Education Innovation Award – recognizing new and creative approaches to music education within or outside the school day
Applications:
Any questions please contact Susan Weber at: awards@nyssma.org
Susan Weber
NYSSMA Awards chairperson