Jessica Vaughan-Marra, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Music and Coordinator of Music Education, was recognized by Yamaha in their “40 Under 40” program for educators as part of the 2024 list.

Jessica oversees music teacher licensure and degree completion at Seton Hill. She also coordinates fieldwork placements, student teaching internships and music teacher education curriculum and content.

“Seeing undergraduate music education majors begin their journey into the profession, work their way through coursework and fieldwork where they explore teaching practices, and then evolve into novice music educators with excitement and interest in seeking more information is what I find most rewarding,” Jessica said.

Though she doesn’t conduct ensembles as part of her teaching responsibilities, Jessica hosts as many as 10 local vocal and instrumental ensembles at Seton Hill as an on-campus fieldwork and clinic opportunity for her students. 

“These ‘fieldwork Fridays’ help our music education majors by providing longer rehearsal time blocks for micro-teaching as well as opportunities to sit in with the ensembles performing on secondary instruments,” she explained.

One of Jessica’s goals with her transition into higher education was to expand her impact on the lives of student musicians. Prior to her Ph.D., she was a middle school band and orchestra director in the Silicon Valley of California. Through volunteer efforts and active membership in music education organizations, she has developed and maintained relationships with pre-K-12 music educators across the country, which helps her stay connected to the classroom. She often invites colleagues and peers in the profession to present or work with her students at Seton Hill.

“At Seton Hill, our students are prepared for not only the music teaching experiences that parallel their education but also adaptability to the ever-evolving landscape of music education,” Jessica said.

Yamaha launched the “40 Under 40” music education advocacy program in 2021 to honor educators who are making a difference in growing and strengthening their music programs. Jessica was selected for this award from hundreds of nominations from students, parents, teachers and administrators, local instrument dealers and mentors.