Wright State music professor honored with Ohio’s top music education service award

What started as a typical day of teaching in Schuster Hall turned into an unforgettable moment for Wright State University’s Shelley Jagow, Ph.D.

Jagow, professor of music and director of bands, was teaching a class in Schuster Hall on Dec. 5 when representatives from the Ohio Music Education Association stepped onto the stage to share unexpected news: Jagow had been selected to receive the association’s Distinguished Service Award at its Professional Development Conference in Columbus in January.

“I was totally surprised,” Jagow said. “I saw important people coming in and I thought, ‘Am I in trouble?’”

The announcement, made by Brian Stevens, the president of the Ohio Music Education Association, was met with cheers from Wright State faculty and staff who had been tipped off about the surprise.

“It’s such a prestigious award and I’m very humbled by it,” Jagow said.

The Distinguished Service Award is the association’s highest annual honor.

“It is for someone who has over many years provided incredible service in teaching and leadership throughout the state in music education,” Stevens said.

Mark Hensler, director of professional development at the Ohio Music Education Association, nominated Jagow for her impact on students and educators around the state.

Stevens said Jagow has long been seen as a leader and master teacher.

“She has contributed so much to our profession,” he said.

For Jagow, the award reflects her lifelong passion for music. She started playing piano in third grade, sharing the instrument with her four siblings in a small farmhouse in Canada.

“When I started teaching, the goal was all about making great music,” she said. “But the longer I’ve done this, I have realized what I love most is teaching students through music.”