Oakland University
Tuesday, April 7, 2015

MaTilDa Awards to honor music, theatre and dance performers

Oakland University’s Department of Music, Theatre and Dance will present the 16th Annual MaTilDa Awards to honor outstanding contributions from Music, Theatre and Dance students, alumni and distinguished community members.

The red carpet event is set for 6 p.m. on Monday, April 20, in the Oakland Center Banquet Rooms, located on OU’s campus. Open to the public, the evening will include dinner and entertainment.

Tickets are $22 for students and $42 for all others. To purchase tickets, go online or call the Music, Theatre and Dance office at (248) 370-2030. For additional information, visit the website at oakland.edu/matildas

2015 Alumni Honorees 

Cáitlín Burke

Alumni Achievement Award in Music and Theatre 

Cáitlín Burke has been lauded by The New York Times as having “virtuoso flair” being “genuinely uproarious” of “ample voice” and having the ability to create “three-dimensional characters” out of her roles. As an internationally acclaimed interpreter of the works of Gilbert and Sullivan, her compelling performances of Katisha (“The Mikado”), Mad Margaret (“Ruddigore”), Ruth (“The Pirates of Penzance”), Buttercup (“H.M.S. Pinafore”), and Lady Jane (“Patience”), have brought her critical acclaim on the New York stage and abroad. She frequently captivates New York audiences as a principal performer with The New York Gilbert and Sullivan Players, performing at New York City’s most renowned theaters, including New York City Center, The Peter Jay Sharp and the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theaters at Symphony Space, The Skirball Center, The 92nd St. Y, and The National Opera Center. She made her UK debut with England’s National Gilbert and Sullivan Company (alongside members of The D’Oyly Carte Opera Company) at The Royal Hall as part of The International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival, and recently returned from a highly successful UK tour, as the first American to tour with this prestigious company, in their productions of “The Mikado,” “The Pirates of Penzance,” “H.M.S. Pinafore,” and “Iolanthe.” The 2014-15 season also brought her global recognition, as a performer, adapter, and producer of “The House of Murgatroyd,” which premiered to international critical acclaim at The Victoria Theatre at The International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival in the UK. She has appeared across the U.S., Canada, and Europe as a soloist with England’s National Festival Orchestra at the Royal Hall, The Columbus Symphony, The Chattanooga Symphony, The Allentown Symphony, and in productions at The Boston Early Music Festival, Columbus Opera, Geneva Opera, Opera New Hampshire, Dayton Opera, North Shore Music Theatre, and at The Filene Center at Wolf Trap National Performing Arts Park in Washington, D.C. 

Jenefer Ardell Miller

Alumni Achievement Award in Dance

Miller is a native of Michigan and has studied dance and acting all across the country.  She holds a Bachelor of Arts in the Performing Arts from Oakland University and an M.A.Ed. from the University of Phoenix. While she attended OU, her choreography was faculty-selected to be presented at Cornell University for the American College Dance Festival. She has appeared on stage with Tap 24.7, Scuff’d Up, Especially Tap Chicago, the Detroit Tap Festival, and Oakland Dance Theatre. Miller has studied with, and performed in shows alongside legends such as Jason Samuels Smith, Ben Vereen, Sarah Reich, Savion Glover, Dianne Walker, Barbara Duffy, Robert Reed, Debbie Allen, the Nicholas Brothers, Harold “Stumpy” Cromer and Heather Cornell. Miller has danced, taught, or choreographed for prestigious tap organizations such as the Detroit Tap Festival, honoring the legendary Nicholas Brothers, Dance Chicago, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, Motor City Tap Fest and the St. Louis Tap Festival. Fondly referred to as “JMill,” she also has a passion for musical theatre and served as the director and choreographer for Kyrene Community Theatre, where she has directed more than 30 shows. “During the day,” she is a full-time high school theatre and English teacher and just directed/choreographed a professional production of Hairspray. Additionally, she coaches/judges speech and forensics events for middle and high schools, and runs a local improv troupe. She is the founder and producer of Just West of Broadway, a theatre convention designed for dancers, actors and singers. She is the co-founder/co-director of Tap 24.7, a professional tap company in Phoenix. Miller and tap partner Suzy Guarino have been co-producing, writing, and directing full-length tap dance shows hosting tap dancers from all over the world. Tap is her passion and she teaches all over the country.

2015 Community Service Honoree

Michael Gillespie (OU professor emeritus of theatre)

Distinguished Community Service Award

Born in Hawaii, Michael Gillespie was blessed with a progressive early education that brought the whole wide world to life through acting, singing, dancing, painting, sculpture and writing. He flew eagerly across the Pacific to the mainland to study French and Theatre at Stanford University, and beyond the Atlantic to experience a junior year abroad at the Sorbonne. His love of French led him to Peace Corps service in Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa. Back on the mainland, Gillespie pursued a master’s degree and a mate at Marquette University in Milwaukee. He and Carolyn returned to Stanford to acquire advanced degrees in Theatre and a baby daughter. Teaching jobs in Texas and two boys followed. Twenty-eight years ago, the family odyssey brought them all to Michigan. Over the years, Oakland University provided generous support for Gillespie to expand his horizons through faculty travel grants and sabbatical leaves. During his first sabbatical, the family spent a semester in Paris where Michael began his formal training in Alexander Technique and the kids became citizens of the world. Three years of monthly visits to Philadelphia and Virginia culminated in certification as an Alexander teacher. Subsequent visits to theatre training programs across the country allowed Gillespie to refine his skills by observing master Alexander teachers in action. Additional work/travel highlights include directing operas in Florida; presenting the results of Music, Theatre and Dance’s Hawaiian-inspired “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at a humanities conference in Honolulu; directing student actors in a series of American plays in Ukraine; and teaching Alexander Technique aboard ship in the Mediterranean for the University of Virginia’s Semester at Sea. Although “retired,” Gillespie continues to teach and act, and to share Alexander Technique with OU’s Music, Theatre and Dance students. 

2015 Student Honorees

Priscilla Bakic

Maggie Allesee Choreography Award

Priscilla Bakic will be graduating this year with a Bachelor of Arts in dance. She has performed in works by Laurie Eisenhower, Matthew Thornton and Alicia Diaz, Sean Hoskins, Lizzy Leopold and Rodney Brown. Bakic also does choreographic work; one of her pieces is being presented and adjudicated at American College Dance Association. She is also interested in history and literature, which she studied at Oxford University in the summer of 2013. She studied Shakespeare and other drama works, including plays by Noel Coward and Martin McDonagh. In the future, Bakic wants to move to New York and study at Broadway Dance Center to further her abilities as a dancer and choreographer.

“To become a good choreographer, one must learn to create a language of movement that is unique and interesting, and this is exactly what Priscilla Bakic has done. Some students, like Priscilla, have a natural gift to choreograph. Her dances are well-crafted, attention-grabbing, and creative. Priscilla has worked hard over the years to hone her ability to produce dances that express her point of view and are still liked by all who see them. The dance faculty admires how she absorbed the tools taught to her and developed her own distinctive style. We look forward to witnessing her development and seeing many more of her dances onstage.” - Gregory Patterson, Associate Professor of Dance.

Joshua Bobek

Outstanding Student in Music Education 

Joshua Bobek is a saxophonist and music educator currently finishing up his studies in music education, with specializations in instrumental and general music from Oakland University. He was a co-winner of the 2013 Oakland University Wind Symphony Concerto Completion, through which he was able to perform Paule Maurice’s “Tabeaux de Province” with the Oakland University Wind Symphony, the Oakland University Saxophone Ensemble, the Oakland University Jazz Band and several saxophone quartets. Bobek is currently finishing an instrumental music internship at Sterling Heights High School, under the supervision of mentor teacher Anthony Imbrunone. In addition to his coursework, Bobek frequently serves as a band technician for many local high schools during their marching band camps and throughout the marching season. He has taught private saxophone lessons for the past several years and his students have gone on to receive “superior” ratings at several local Solo and Ensemble festivals. Bobek also serves as director of music at Ortonville United Methodist Church and is the coordinator of special music and the director of the adult chancel choir. 

“Josh is a dedicated music educator in instrumental music with an unwavering commitment to the education of his students. Throughout his coursework, Josh has continued to grow as a musician and educator culminating in a successful internship experience with demonstrated skills in curriculum design, pedagogy, and reflective practice as well as very successful student performances. We look forward to following Josh in his career as a music educator.” -Deborah VanderLinde & Joseph Shively, Associate Professors, Music Education.

Hannah Bossner

Outstanding Student in Piano Performance

Joyce Adelson Piano Ensemble Award

Hannah Bossner is a junior piano performance major at Oakland University, studying under Dr. I-Chen Yeh. Upon graduation, Hannah aspires to attend graduate school for piano performance and possibly piano pedagogy. Within the past year, she has won the 18th Annual David Daniels Young Artist Competition, the First Annual Concerto Competition from Oakland’s Chamber Orchestra, the Dorothy K. Roosevelt Award from the Birmingham Musicale and the Rosamond P. Haeberle Award from the Tuesday Musicale. She also received the Oakland University MaTilDa Awards for Outstanding Student in Piano Performance and the Joyce Adelson Piano Ensemble Award. In addition to performing and practicing, Bossner enjoys music theory, playing and accompanying for her local church, and teaching private piano at Expressions Music Academy in Troy.

“Hannah Bossner is an intelligent, highly motivated, personable student, and her learning skills and dedication to the piano are excellent. She is an outstanding musician with deep musical sensitivity. Hannah is a model student in every aspect. It has been a great joy to witness the musical and personal growth of Hannah this past year.”  -Dr. I-Chen Yeh, Lecturer of Music / Piano

Rhys Burgess

Joyce Adelson Piano Ensemble Award 

Rhys Burgess is currently a junior piano performance major studying under Dr. Rebecca Happel. He graduated from Bethany Christian School in Troy in 2012 and currently resides in Rochester. In January 2014, he was the winner of the Rosamund P. Haeberle Piano Award, as part of a competition at the Tuesday Musicale of Greater Pontiac. After graduation, he intends to pursue further education in collaborative piano, with an emphasis in vocal accompanying. 

“It is my pleasure to see the musical growth of Rhys Burgess and Hannah Bossner as a piano duo. They started this year as two strong individual pianists, however, now they are able to play as one piano player. They have learned to communicate through music and become a chamber ensemble. I can’t wait to hear more of their duo performances in the near future.”  -Dr. I-Chen Yeh, Lecturer of Music / Piano 

Britney Spindler


Britney Spindler (left) and Stacey Fleming perform in a production of "She Loves Me."

Gittlen Theatre Award

Britney Spindler is a sophomore musical theatre major. Her roles at Oakland University include Amalia in “She Loves Me,” Joan in “The Marriage of Bette & Boo,” and Rose in “Enchanted April The Musical.” She also costume coordinated Bette & Boo and Enchanted April, and was the assistant scenic designer on “The Life.” Outside of OU, she works with the Amarant Design Collective as project coordinator and associated artist. 

“Britney’s approach to the theatre is holistic: she has explored onstage and backstage arts including costume design, scenic design and run crew, all with the intention of being a better informed performer. Her service to the theatre program is equally strong: she has participated in hosting auditions, recruiting and in a variety of production roles. Britney’s commitment to the production process, her reliability and her work effort make her a respected member of the OU theatre community.” -Jeremy Barnett, Assistant Professor of Theatre.

Stacey Fleming

Outstanding Student Service Award: Theatre

Stacey Fleming is finishing her last year at Oakland University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. She grew up in West Bloomfield, but finished her high school career in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Academy where she was a dance major. She attended Columbia College Chicago for one year before attending Oakland University. When she isn’t at rehearsals or choreographing for Lake Orion High School, she is baking or playing Sudoku. Her previous credits include Ilse (“Spring Awakening”), Ilona Ritter (“She Loves Me”) and Marcy (“Dogfight”).

“Stacey has been a dynamic and engaging presence since she arrived at Oakland and has taken full advantage of every opportunity here. Stacey’s Oakland resume began with the role of Ilse in Spring Awakening, Frenchie in Sweet Charity and Frenchie in The Life to Ananzi in Ananzi and finally as Ilona Ritter in She Loves Me. She has been the Dance Captain on five shows here at OU showing to us all her triple-threat abilities. Her care, dedication and esprit de corps inspire all those around her.” -Fred Love, Associate Professor of Theatre-Musical Theatre, (Doris Eaton-Travis Professorship)

Jackie Gubow

Outstanding Student in Music Education

Jackie Gubow graduated Summa Cum Laude in December 2014 with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. She was honored to receive Oakland University’s Meritorious Achievement Award and to deliver the commencement address at the College of Arts and Sciences undergraduate graduation ceremony. She recently completed her student teaching at Meadow Brook Elementary School in Rochester. At OU, Gubow’s theatre credits include “Carrie the Musical” (Margaret White), “Antigone” (Ismene), “Anansi,” “Police Deaf Near Far” (Trainer/Officer Richter), “Little Mary Sunshine” (Madame Ernestine von Liebedich), “Pageant Play,” and “L’incoronazione di Poppea” (Arnalta). Professionally, Gubow worked at the Barn Theatre in Augusta, Mich., the Huron Playhouse in Huron, Ohio and College Light Opera Company in Falmouth, Mass.

“Jackie’s skill sets for her career as a music educator include her overall musicianship and her sophisticated understanding of curriculum and classroom pedagogy. Throughout her music education coursework, Jackie has been a stellar student and a leader in creative and innovative lesson planning with a keen sense of students’ interests and abilities. She is a strong teacher and has demonstrated her ability to create musical learning communities in her elementary music classrooms. -Deborah VanderLinde & Joseph Shively, Associate Professors, Music Education.

John Hallman

Outstanding Student in Chamber Music

Currently in his second year at Oakland University, John Hallman is a saxophonist studying under Dr. Jeffrey Heisler. In addition to being a member of the We3 & She Saxophone Quartet, Hallman is also a member of The Flex Quartet, Oakland University Saxophone Ensemble, Oakland University Jazz Band, Oakland University Wind Symphony, and he also is an in-demand soloist. Hallman has performed at popular venues such as Staples Family Concert Hall (Central Michigan), Pease Auditorium (Eastern Michigan), and Cliff Bells in Detroit. He has participated in master classes with Joseph Lulloff, Jonathan Nichol, Jeffrey Loeffert, and Hans de Jong. John is the soprano chair of the We3 & She Saxophone Quartet, an ensemble at Oakland University that promotes a student-led and professional environment among the fellow members.

“Formed in 2013, The We Three and She Saxophone Quartet has built a substantial original saxophone repertoire of works from the romantic to the avant-garde. We Three and She is committed to helping promote the saxophone quartet repertory and has commissioned new works by composers Benjamin Taylor and Sean Parks. Performance highlights of the ensemble have included 1st prize in the Oakland University Chamber Music Competition and community outreach concerts at Eisenhower High School and the Metro Detroit Bureau of School Studies.” -Jeffrey Heisler, Assistant Professor of Music.

Jillian Hoffman

Gittlen Achievement Award in Musical Theatre 

After graduation, Jillian Hoffman will be moving to New York City to pursue her professional musical theatre career. 

Jillian possesses a beautiful ingénue singing voice and stage presence. She works hard to cultivate her many talents which has become an inspiration to all those around her. Her honesty, personal commitment and her devotion to the art of making great theatre is why she is deserving of this award. She has portrayed the shy waitress Rose in “Dogfight,” Ilse in “Spring Awakening” and Clarice in “The Liar,” to name but a few; all demonstrating her versatility as a very talented actress. -Fred Love, Associate Professor of Theatre-Musical Theatre, (Doris Eaton-Travis Professorship)

Mariah Chandler


Mariah Chandler is this year's winner for Outstanding Dance Performance.

Outstanding Dance Performance

Mariah Chandler started her training at the age of 5. She began dancing competitively at Big City Dance Center when she was 11 years old. Her training is in ballet, pointe, lyrical, contemporary, modern, jazz, hip-hop, and tap. After graduating from Grand Blanc High School in 2011, she continued her studies in dance at Oakland University on a dance scholarship, earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts. Chandler has worked with Laurie Eisenhower, Stephanie Pizzo, Thayer Jonutz, Ali Woerner, Gregory Patterson, Christina Tasco, Iris Wilson and Dana Foglia. After earning her degree, Chandler would like to perform in Los Angeles. After her performing days are over, she would like to obtain her Master of Fine Arts, in hopes of teaching at the university level.

“Mariah was a standout student from the first semester she began in OU’s dance program. It was clear she was passionate about dance and it showed.  Mariah was focused, disciplined and driven, and dance simply exuded from her.  Her technique is impeccable and her commitment is exemplary. On stage she creates beautiful lines and shows emotion that causes the audience to pay attention. Mariah is easily one of the best dancers we have produced at Oakland University, and we are positive others will take notice. Mariah has always had a great attitude that seemed infectious to others. She cheers everyone up every time she enters the room. She’ll achieve whatever she wants, and the dance faculty looks forward to seeing it.” -Gregory Patterson, Associate Professor of Dance.

Alexander Kopitz

Jennifer Scott Memorial Award

Alexander Kopitz is a senior studying piano under Dr. Rebecca Happel and previously with Mary Siciliano. He will graduate this spring with a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance. Kopitz is the 2014 winner of the MaTilDa award for Outstanding Student in Piano Performance and a 2014 winner of the Oakland Symphony Concerto Competition, where he performed the third movement of Rachmaninoff’s “2nd Piano Concerto” with the orchestra. He is a 2014 winner of the Birmingham-Bloomfield Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Competition and performed with the orchestra. Kopitz is also the 2013 Detroit Chapter Mu Phi Epsilon Salon Scholarship recipient. Along with his studies, he teaches private lessons and regularly works as an accompanist. He plans to pursue a graduate degree in piano performance.

In my 15 years on the faculty at Oakland University, I would place Alex among the top piano students who have come through our doors in terms of his innate talent, ability to learn quickly, artistic imagination and sensibility, and passion for performing. I have watched Alex’s progress from talented freshman to outstanding senior in piano performance capable of tackling the most virtuosic and musically-demanding repertoire with an understanding born of a thorough knowledge of theory and a sponge-like attitude toward learning. What he has managed to accumulate in terms of a large body of polished repertoire is a testament to Alex’s total absorption in, and fearless approach to, the piano and its possibilities under his fingers. His talent has been validated countless times as winner of several diverse piano competitions. And he has already demonstrated a gift as a teacher, imparting the skills and knowledge he himself has acquired.  -Rebecca Happel, Piano Instructor 

Renee Kuczeski

Outstanding Student in Composition

Renee Kuczeski is a Percussion Music Education student, with a minor in World Music.  She has been involved in Wind Symphony, Oakland Symphony Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, Steel Band, multiple jazz combos, Brass Band, African Ensemble, Percussion Pops, and other world music ensembles. She also teaches piano at Lozier Music, instructs the Avondale drumline, co-instructs the Carlson Gibraltar pit, and mentors the OYO percussionists. Kuczeski has been studying composition under Terry Herald every fall and winter semester she has attended Oakland University. She has written for a wide variety of instruments and styles, such as tuba quartets, string quartets, multiple duets, voice and piano, SATB, percussion ensemble, wind symphony, orchestra, and many more. She is currently exploring creating compositions involving technology. She plans on graduating from Oakland University in the fall semester of 2015.

“When Mark Stone came to me four years ago, asking me to meet with a potential Percussion Major who was interested in composition, I had no idea that she would turn out to be one of the most talented people I had ever met. Renee has studied composition with me each semester since then and has always been able to surprise and delight me with her creativity and passion. Over the years we have explored a wide range of compositional devises and media, and each lesson has been filled with a convivial exchange of ideas, along with a generous portion of laughter. I have confidence that Renee will continue to have wonderful success.”  -Terry Herald, Music Lecturer

James Long


James Long (first euphonium) and Lucas Perzyk (first trombone) perform with the OU Brass Band.

Distinguished Musicianship Award

James Long is a senior euphonium performance major at Oakland University and a student of Dr. Kenneth Kroesche. He was a third place winner at the prestigious 2012 Leonard Falcone Competition. Long won the Oakland University Wind Symphony Competition, which allowed him to perform a solo with the Wind Symphony in the Spring of 2013. Long is also accomplished in the realm of chamber music, having won the Oakland University Chamber Music Competition in 2014 with the Tubas D’amore. He was awarded the Provosts Undergraduate Research Grant this past fall semester, which will allow him to perform rare euphonium works with woodwind quintet at a recital. In addition to playing the euphonium, Long is accomplished on the tuba. He was named principal tuba of the Detroit Symphony Civic Orchestra for the 2014-2015 season. His primary teachers include Dr. Kenneth Kroesche and Dr. Robert Benton.

When James Long decided to attend Oakland, he turned down acceptance offers from larger, more established schools both in and out of state. He recently told me that in addition to looking forward to playing in the OU Brass Band, he came to study with me because he knew I would not let him be a ‘slacker.’ I can tell you that James is anything but a slacker. His achievements as a musician and performer have had a profound impact on the entire brass and instrumental area and will be talked about for years to come. In all my years of teaching, I have rarely seen rehearsals and performances transformed by a singular musician the way James' playing elevates an ensemble. I have grown to enjoy our conversations about music and our other shared passions, and even though he will be missed, I am excited to see what the future holds for this outstanding musician.  -Kenneth Kroesche, Associate Professor of Low Brass

Lucas Perzyk

Outstanding Student in Instrumental Music (Undergraduate)

In his fourth year, Luke Perzyk is currently pursuing a major in Trombone Performance. During his sophomore year, he was a winner of the Oakland Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition. During his junior year, he was a part of the winning performance of the Oakland University Brass Band and also a member of Kreschendo, a group that took third in Chamber Music at North American Brass Band Association. Last summer, he was awarded “partner” at the first annual Third Coast Trombone Retreat in Whitehall, Michigan. This year, Perzyk won a Provost Undergraduate Research Grant that will allow him to perform various chamber works with other musicians. He currently plays principal in Oakland University’s Wind Symphony and Brass Band. He also performs in Oakland Symphony Orchestra and is principal in Detroit Civic Orchestra. Perzyk plans to attend graduate school to further himself as a performer.

“Luke Perzyk and I often laugh about the incredible transformation that took place in his playing after he purchased a new horn in his first semester of study with me. The fact of the matter is, this transformation continued for the next four years and occurred not only in his playing, but in everything he does, both academically and musically, at Oakland. Whether he is performing in one of OU's many ensembles or in the low brass studio, his exceptional musicianship and leadership have helped to transform the culture of the instrumental area to one that strives for a higher standard of excellence. Although I will certainly miss him when he graduates this year, I take solace in the exciting future that is open before him and know that he will be in good hands as he continues his musical studies with John Kitzman, principal trombonist of the Dallas Symphony, one of my former teachers.” -Kenneth Kroesche, Associate Professor of Low Brass

Morgan McGivern

Outstanding Student in Chamber Music

A native of Shelby Township, Mich., Morgan McGivern is a junior at Oakland University hoping to obtain a degree in Cinema Studies with a minor in Music and English. After graduating, her goal is to move to the United Kingdom and write screenplays for television and cinema. She has been playing the saxophone for 11 years, a hobby that she hopes to continue throughout her career.

“Formed in 2013, The We Three and She Saxophone Quartet has built a substantial original saxophone repertoire of works from the romantic to the avant-garde. We Three and She is committed to helping promote the saxophone quartet repertory and has commissioned new works by composers Benjamin Taylor and Sean Parks. Performance highlights of the ensemble have included first prize in the Oakland University Chamber Music Competition and community outreach concerts at Eisenhower High School and the Metro Detroit Bureau of School Studies.” -Jeffrey Heisler, Assistant Professor of Music.

Pablo Calzada Munoz

Gittlen Achievement Award in Acting

Pablo Calzada Munoz is a Theatre and Economics major. He recently played the role of Cliton in “The Liar.” He also played Willy Nilly in “Under Milk Wood” and Antipholus of Ephesus in “Comedy of Errors.” He is currently the Vice President of the Actors ‘N’ Techies board. His biggest passion is acting and learning Shakespeare.

“It has been a great pleasure to watch Pablo grow as a person and as an actor. He demands that every single moment of his life, on and off the stage, be filled with commitment and a positive attitude. His commanding yet humble spirit provides a role model for every young actor. It is hard to match his relentless pursuit of excellence and demanding work ethic. The faculty wishes him more of the same in his final year at OU.” -Anthony Guest, Assistant Professor of Theatre

Chelsea Nabozny

Outstanding Student Service Award: Dance

Chelsea Nabozny is a senior and will be graduating from OU in May 2015. She will have a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and plans on teaching. Her main goal is to start her own dance school, along with creating a program for children with autism. Nabozny has recently run a four-performance show at Oakland University as stage manager, lighting operator and sound operator and often volunteers her time in the dance department. She is also an aspiring writer who has been published through Oakland University’s 2014 Meeting of Minds Conference and hopes to publish books in the near future. 

Chelsea has been the ‘go to’ student in the dance program for quite some time. Often, she simply volunteers to help organize things for dancers, just to help things run smoother. For instance, when seven seniors were producing their BFA concerts this semester, Chelsea organized a schedule of rehearsal times for each of them. She oversees the dance mentorship program and makes certain that no first-year student goes without a mentor. Besides her impeccable organizing skills, Chelsea is a very talented dancer and choreographer. She also excels academically. We are very grateful to have had Chelsea in the dance program, and know it will be extremely difficult to fill her shoes.” -Gregory Patterson, Associate Professor of Dance

Heather Neuenschwander

Outstanding Student in Instrumental Music (Graduate) 

Heather Neuenschwander is a second-year master’s student in Flute Performance at Oakland University. She received her undergraduate degree in Music Education at Wayne State University. Before beginning her degree at Oakland, she taught middle school and high school band, choir and music appreciation in Michigan and Illinois for five years. She is currently a member of the Oakland Symphony Orchestra and has performed in master classes for Marina Piccinini, Laurie Sokoloff, Nicola Mazzanti, Jennifer, Clippert, Sharon Sparrow, and Jeffrey Zook. Earlier this year, Neuenschwander performed the Ibert Concerto with the Oakland Symphony Orchestra as a winner of the David Daniels Young Artist Concerto Competition. She will complete her degree in May 2015.

“Heather has been a wonderful addition to our flute studio at OU. She is one of the most positive, organized, calm, determined and hardworking students I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Rarely does a student make such immense progress in such a short amount of time that her teachers are in awe! Heather just keeps raising the bar for herself each week. The entire studio has come to depend on her for her leadership and stability. I am extremely impressed and proud of what she has achieved as a flutist and musician with her time here at OU.” -Sharon Sparrow, DSO Affiliate, Flute.

Brett Wotherspoon


Brett Wotherspoon is the 2015 Distinguished Dance Student.

Distinguished Dance Student 

Brett Wotherspoon began dancing at Allard Academy of Dance in 1995. In 2004, he performed in “The Nutcracker” with the Moscow Ballet, and in 2006 with The Joffrey Ballet. He attended Arts Academy in the Woods, where he had dance in his everyday curriculum at school. After graduating in 2011, he began at Oakland University, earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, on a dance scholarship. He has worked with Laurie Eisenhower, Stephanie Pizzo, Thayer Jonutz, Ali Woerner, Gregory Patterson, Christina Tasco, Alicia Cutaia, Iris Wilson, Kendra Portier, Jill Zmijewski, Sean Hoskins, and Bryan Strimpel. In May of 2013, Brett performed with Eisenhower Dance, in the production of Aida at the Detroit Opera House. In 2014, he became a part of Patterson Rhythm Pace, directed by Gregory Patterson. Brett intends to pursue a professional dance career.

“Over the four years in OU’s dance program, Brett Wotherspoon has developed into an incredible dancer, but what distinguishes him from other majors is the person he’s become outside of the dance studio. Brett is the student leader in our program; he helps and assists anyone who has a question or problem, including faculty.  He is reliable, caring, kind and simply a joy to be around. He volunteers his time without hesitation and has become an upstanding role model for all of his peers. As a performer, Brett is breathtaking. On stage, he draws you in through his larger than life personality and flawless technique. Brett has the ability and drive to succeed in dance and the faculty believes it will happen very soon.  We are extremely proud of Brett and look forward to hearing good things in the near future.”  -Gregory Patterson, Associate Professor of Dance

Chris O’ Meara

Gittlen Achievement Award in Theatre Design and Technology

Chris O’Meara is a junior Theatre Design & Technology major at Oakland University.  His involvement in the program this year has included scenic design for “She Loves Me” and lighting design of “The Liar.” He will be spending this summer as a lighting technician at the Utah Shakespeare Festival.

“Chris is a remarkably capable theatre technician, as he has demonstrated at OU and in his professional work at the Glimmerglass Opera, Utah Shakespeare Theatre and dozens of locations in the Midwest. What makes Chris special is his dedication to the production process and his generosity to his collaborators. Chris’s commitment, the help he gives to his peers and his endlessly good humor have been inspirations to his peers and professors alike.”  -Jeremy Barnett, Assistant Professor of Theatre.

Devin Price

Pat and Mercedes Nicosia Meadow Brook Estate Award

Devin Price is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. His credits include shows such as “The Life,” “Dogfight,” “Sweet Charity,” “Carrie The Musical”, “Legally Blonde The Musical,” “Spring Awakening,” and his cabaret “You must not know ‘bout me.”

“Devin is the embodiment of what it means to be a true triple-threat performer in musical theatre. He works hard to cultivate his many talents, which has become an inspiration to all those around him. He has portrayed the smarmy but irresistibly likeable Jojo in ‘The Life,’ the sexually confused Ernst in ‘Spring Awakening’ and two highly entertaining and original Cabaret Nightclub Acts at The Orchid. His honesty, personal commitment and his devotion to the art of creating great theatre is why he is deserving of this award.” -Fred Love, Associate Professor of Theatre-Musical Theatre, (Doris Eaton-Travis Professorship)

Alyssa Primeau

Outstanding Student in Instrumental Music (Undergraduate)

Alyssa Primeau is a junior at Oakland University, pursuing a double major in Flute Performance and Instrumental Music Education. She currently studies flute privately with Professor Sharon Sparrow of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and has previously studied with Jeffery Zook, Holly Haffner, and Barb Ogar. Primeau has also had the pleasure of performing for flutists Jasmine Choi and Nicola Mazzanti. In February 2015, she was a finalist of the 18th Annual David Daniels Young Artists Concerto Competition. She currently enjoys teaching privately at Marshall Music in Troy, Mich., and performing with Oakland University’s Wind Symphony and the Oakland Symphony Orchestra. In the future, she hopes to obtain a master’s degree in Flute Performance and continue her career as a music educator. 

“I remember Alyssa’s very first flute lesson as a freshman. She was somewhat shy and a bit behind in all of her flute skills. However, she had this glow of enthusiasm and this energy of sheer determination. It was evident by her second lesson that this young woman was ready to soak up every idea I presented, and conquer every task I would present her with. With her energy, talent, work ethic, enthusiasm and genuinely humble demeanor, Alyssa has achieved great success on the flute as well as has been an inspiration and leader to the entire flute studio. She is a student that returns each week completely prepared and ready for the next step. I believe Alyssa’s future is limitless and congratulate her on this well-deserved award.” -Sharon Sparrow, DSO Affiliate, Flute.

Calvin Retz

Outstanding Student in Chamber Music 

Calvin Retz is currently pursuing a degree in music performance at Oakland University. Retz attended Kent State University for one year before coming to Oakland to continue his studies under Dr. Jeffery Heisler. He plans to attend graduate school to pursue a career in music technology.

“Formed in 2013, The We Three and She Saxophone Quartet has built a substantial original saxophone repertoire of works from the romantic to the avant-garde.  We Three and She is committed to helping promote the saxophone quartet repertory and has commissioned new works by composers Benjamin Taylor and Sean Parks. Performance highlights of the ensemble have included first prize in the Oakland University Chamber Music Competition and community outreach concerts at Eisenhower High School and the Metro Detroit Bureau of School Studies.” -Jeffrey Heisler, Assistant Professor of Music.

Daniel Robinson

MTD Award (for commitment to the interdisciplinary nature of the department) 

Daniel Robinson is a senior Theatre Design and Technology major with a focus in lighting design. His design work has been seen in “She Loves Me,” “Pirates of Penzance,” “Carrie the Musical,” “Dead Man’s Cell Phone,” “A Doll’s House,” and many others. Along with designing shows for the department, Robinson is also president of the Actors ’N’ Techies student organization. Upon graduation, he will be moving to Los Angeles to work for Team Imagination as an assistant lighting designer on television shows.

“Dan came to OU interested in lighting design, but in his time here he has diversified wildly. He has designed costumes, sound, scenery and projections for theatre shows and lighting for multiple dance concerts and for opera. He has also served as president of Actors ‘N’ Techies and on the Matilda Board. In everything he does, he is creative and energetic, and always makes everyone on the project have a good time.”  -Kerro Knox 3, Associate Professor of Theatre.

Jason Rodriguez

Outstanding Student in Chamber Music­­

A native of Fort Gratiot, Mich., Jason Rodriguez is a junior at Oakland University studying music education, with a goal to become a music teacher for K-12 students.

“Formed in 2013, The We Three and She Saxophone Quartet has built a substantial original saxophone repertoire of works from the romantic to the avant-garde.  We Three and She is committed to helping promote the saxophone quartet repertory and has commissioned new works by composers Benjamin Taylor and Sean Parks. Performance highlights of the ensemble have included first prize in the Oakland University Chamber Music Competition and community outreach concerts at Eisenhower High School and the Metro Detroit Bureau of School Studies.” -Jeffrey Heisler, Assistant Professor of Music.

Karin Spencer

Outstanding Dance Performance

Karin Spencer began dancing at age six and been consistently trained since age 13. She joined the Oakland Dance Theater, Student Company, in 2011. There, she has worked with many choreographers, including Greg Patterson, Laurie Eisenhower, Elizabeth Kattner, Ali Woerner and Thayer Jonutz (Take Root Company founders), Meg Paul (reseting a work from Twyla Tharp’s Torelli), and Christina Tasco. Spencer has also been a member of the Luna Dancers Company, based out of Luna Royal Oak Nightclub, since 2012. As part of the group, she has choreographed and performed themed, wow-factor inspired shows once a month. She is trained in ballet, hip-hop, jazz, modern, and African. As of summer 2014, she is certified in Basic Giordano technique by the Giordano Dance Chicago Company. She plans to graduate in May of 2015 with degrees in dance and psychology.

“In the beginning the faculty recognized the potential Karin possessed, and knew that if she worked hard and remained committed she would do very well.  Little did we know, she would exceed our expectations. Karin has blossomed into well-seasoned, professional dancer and the faculty could not be any prouder. Her beautiful spirit shines through her dancing and it is infectious when she’s onstage. Karin can go as far as she wants with dance and that’s exactly what she plans to do. We can’t wait to hear the success stories.”  -Gregory Patterson, Associate Professor of Dance

Allison Vernon

Outstanding Student in Voice Performance

Allison Vernon is a senior music education and vocal performance major studying under Barbara Bland. During her time at Oakland, she has appeared on stage as Mabel in Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Pirates of Penzance,” Damigella in Monteverdi’s “L’incoronazione di Poppea,” and was recently a finalist in Oakland’s Concerto Competition. Vernon currently teaches voice lessons at the Rochester Conservatory of Music, and works as a section leader at First Presbyterian, Birmingham. After graduation, she intends to pursue education in vocal pedagogy at the graduate level.

“It is such a pleasure to work with Allison Vernon as her voice teacher. Allison is exactly what every teacher wishes for in a student: smart! talented, hard-working, self-motivated and humble.  She is the kind of student who leads by example, encourages her peers and is as happy for the success of her friends as she is for her own.  She is well deserving of this honor and has my most heartfelt congratulations.” -Barbara Bland, Voice Instructor.

Nicholas Voisich

Outstanding Student in Jazz

Nicholas Voisich is a senior at Oakland University pursuing a degree in trumpet performance and instrumental music education with a minor in jazz studies. He currently performs in many of Oakland University’s ensembles, including lead trumpet in the Jazz Band, principal trumpet in the Wind Symphony, Eb soprano cornet in the Brass Band. He also performs frequently with the Oakland Symphony Orchestra. In order to increase his jazz education and musicianship, he recently began to study the double bass and now performs in one of the university’s many combos. Beyond performing, he enjoys teaching trumpet lessons and working with all levels of music students, seeing live performances done by all of the great orchestras in the area.

“Nick Voisich has been a mainstay of the jazz program during his time at OU.  It’s been a joy to watch him develop and cultivate his interest in jazz, and has avidly pursued educational opportunities related to the jazz program, including learning jazz bass.  I believe Nick will inspire his future students to do the same, and it is my honor to award him this year’s MaTilDa for Jazz.” - Miles Brown, Assistant Professor of Music.

Alexander Walker

Outstanding Student Service Award: Music 

Alexander Walker is finishing his fourth year at Oakland University, pursuing a double major in music education and vocal performance, with a minor in Spanish Language. Walker graduated with honors from Chippewa Valley High School in 2011. At Oakland, he has focused on choral music education, with additional studies in upper-level music theory and musicology. With Oakland’s opera program, Walker has been seen in “Gianni Schicchi,” “L’incoronazione di Poppea,” and most recently as the Sergeant of Police in “The Pirates of Penzance.” Walker is studying voice with Nadine Washington. Additionally, he enjoys teaching group piano classes for OU’s Music Prep Division, performing frequently with the professional chamber vocal ensemble Sounding Light, and being an avid Zumba Fitness instructor. 

“Alexander Walker has served as Head Choral Librarian for two years. In this capacity he works with a staff of three serving over 200 singers in three different choirs. He is solely responsible for the management of a library with nearly 1,000 titles and approximately 10,000 individual copies of music. He also maintains the computer database catalog.  Alexander spends countless hours organizing the library and preparing for each choir’s semester, providing every individual singer with his or her own copy of music and keeping track of it all. He meets every need in the choral music program, whether well-planned or last minute and he always does so with a smile on his face and a helpful attitude. All this while double majoring in music education and vocal performance, keeping an A grade point average, and singing as the only university undergraduate student in the professional chamber choir Sounding Light.”  -Michael Mitchell, Associate Professor of Music.

Jacléne Wilk

Gittlen Achievement Award in Musical Theatre

Growing up in a talented and creative family, Jacléne Wilk was introduced to the world of acting, singing and dancing at a very young age. At age 5, she started performing at the Marquis Theatre in Northville Mich. During middle school, she participated in choir and theatre. Her passion and enthusiasm for performing earned her lead roles in several high school productions. Wilk transferred to Oakland University in 2012 from Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Mich. Her credits include “Legally Blonde: The Musical” as Vivienne Kensington, Stephy in “Carrie The Musical”, April in “The Life” and a role that is most special to her, Charity Hope Valentine in “Sweet Charity” during her time at Oakland University. Wilk also worked at the Huron Playhouse in the summer of 2013 as a company member. There, she played Elvira in “Blithe Spirit” and Betty Whitehouse in “A Dangerous Corner.” Most recently, Wilk Starred as Liberty in her first independent film, “Liberty’s Secret: The 100% All American Musical” this past year. She looks forward to living in New York City, and hopes to dive into the exciting challenges and opportunities that come her way. 

“Jacléne is blessed with many talents: an ability to entertain through comedy and/or drama, a terrific singing voice and a quirky and engaging personality that sets her apart from other actors. She has portrayed Charity in Sweet Charity, April in The Life and Vivienne in Legally Blonde. Although cast in many “mean girl” roles, she, like Charity possesses a “heart of gold.” Entertaining must be based on truth and to quote Sid Caesar: ‘You take the truth and add a little curlicue at the end.’ It is that curlicue at the end that is Ms. Jacléne Wilk.” -Fred Love, Associate Professor of Theatre-Musical Theatre, (Doris Eaton-Travis Professorship)

Presented by OU's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, the event will take place on Monday, April 20, in the Oakland Center Banquet Rooms.

Created by Eric Reikowski (esreikow@oakland.edu) on Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Modified by Eric Reikowski (esreikow@oakland.edu) on Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Article Start Date: Tuesday, April 7, 2015