Des Moines Alumnae Chapter Biographies K - Z
Winifred Murray Kelley
Birthday: July 11, 1918
Education: Coe College, AB English, 1940 and University of Michigan, Masters Music Education, 1942 Vocal Music. Alpha Chapter
Offices: Sang the Rose Song
Awards: Sword of Honor
Other Alumnae Chapter: Philadelphia
Musical Talent: Vocal and chorus and solo – soprano. Also Piano
Winifred joined the WAVES of the Navy from 1943 to 1946. Active Duty in 12th Naval District, San Francisco. In USNR to 1953, she sang in the premier of opera “Peter Grimes.” She was a part of the chorus at Tanglewood Music Center, 1946. Winifred taught music and English for 6 years in various schools. She sang in the Fellowship House Choir in Philadelphia from 1951-53. She was with the Philadelphia Orchestra about 4 times and sang 2 years in the choir of Clarence Dickinson at the Brick Presbyterian Church in New York City. She was a choir member of Central Presbyterian Church in Des Moines for 40 years.
Her family includes husband Robb Kelley; her children: Bruce, born 1954, Carolyn, born 1956, and Sarah, born 1968; and 8 grandchildren. Winifred taught English and Music in Assian, Iowa, Monmouth Junior College, and Teaneck Junior High, and was Elementary music supervisor in Battle Creek, Michigan. She joined the study group Proteus in Des Moines, was a member of the Iowa Humanities Board for 6 years, and joined AAUW in Des Moines. She was Member and President of the Business Women’s Foundation in Des Moines.
Education: Coe College, AB English, 1940 and University of Michigan, Masters Music Education, 1942 Vocal Music. Alpha Chapter
Offices: Sang the Rose Song
Awards: Sword of Honor
Other Alumnae Chapter: Philadelphia
Musical Talent: Vocal and chorus and solo – soprano. Also Piano
Winifred joined the WAVES of the Navy from 1943 to 1946. Active Duty in 12th Naval District, San Francisco. In USNR to 1953, she sang in the premier of opera “Peter Grimes.” She was a part of the chorus at Tanglewood Music Center, 1946. Winifred taught music and English for 6 years in various schools. She sang in the Fellowship House Choir in Philadelphia from 1951-53. She was with the Philadelphia Orchestra about 4 times and sang 2 years in the choir of Clarence Dickinson at the Brick Presbyterian Church in New York City. She was a choir member of Central Presbyterian Church in Des Moines for 40 years.
Her family includes husband Robb Kelley; her children: Bruce, born 1954, Carolyn, born 1956, and Sarah, born 1968; and 8 grandchildren. Winifred taught English and Music in Assian, Iowa, Monmouth Junior College, and Teaneck Junior High, and was Elementary music supervisor in Battle Creek, Michigan. She joined the study group Proteus in Des Moines, was a member of the Iowa Humanities Board for 6 years, and joined AAUW in Des Moines. She was Member and President of the Business Women’s Foundation in Des Moines.
Tiffany Mauch Krcil
Birthday: January 26, 1985
Education: Drake University, Psychology, 2007. Pi Chapter
Offices: Vice President Ritual
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Saxophone
Tiffany is a lifelong learner of all things. Do good deeds, then go home and let the rest of the details work themselves out without worry. She lives with her husband, David, and their two cats, a gray tabby Jazmine and orange tabby Gibbs. Tiffany currently works at Avondale Veterinary Healthcare Complex as a Registered Veterinary Technician. She enjoys reading, baking, knitting, and eco-friendly home and life improvements.
Education: Drake University, Psychology, 2007. Pi Chapter
Offices: Vice President Ritual
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Saxophone
Tiffany is a lifelong learner of all things. Do good deeds, then go home and let the rest of the details work themselves out without worry. She lives with her husband, David, and their two cats, a gray tabby Jazmine and orange tabby Gibbs. Tiffany currently works at Avondale Veterinary Healthcare Complex as a Registered Veterinary Technician. She enjoys reading, baking, knitting, and eco-friendly home and life improvements.
Linda Strain Ashby McFarlane
Birthday: June 11, 1949
Education: Northwest Missouri State, Music Education, 1971. Charter member of Epsilon Phi Chapter
Offices: Treasurer
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Rose of Dedication, National Outstanding Treasurer Award
Musical Talent: Flute
Linda graduated from Saydel in 1967 after attending elementary school at Berwick, a two-room school with only six in her grade, but 20-24 kids in her classroom (3-4 grade levels) Woodside Junior High, and Saydel High School. She graduated from NWMSU in 1971 and received her Master’s Degree from NWMSU in 1977. She has traveled extensively with Plymouth Chancel Choir. Her husband, Mike, passed away 2010. Linda has three children: Angela, Aaron in New York City, and Alyssa in Kansas City, along with five grandchildren: Emma, Dylan, Tyler, Ava and Alerick, and son-in-laws Doug and Mark.
Linda was a music teacher at Saydel from 1971-1987 and children’s choir director Plymouth UCC Sacred Heart Catholic. Since 1984, she’s been with First Realty as a Sales Associate. Linda is a part of the Greater Iowa Credit Union Board of Directors, Des Moines Women’s Club, Music Chairperson, Director of Chorus. She’s a part of Kappa Kappa Iota, Saydel Education Association, Family Centered Childbirth Education Association as Board member and Childbirth Educator, Plymouth UCC Chancel Choir and Flute Ensemble, Singing Grannies and Pans Pipes and Sacred Heart Spirit Singers.
Education: Northwest Missouri State, Music Education, 1971. Charter member of Epsilon Phi Chapter
Offices: Treasurer
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Rose of Dedication, National Outstanding Treasurer Award
Musical Talent: Flute
Linda graduated from Saydel in 1967 after attending elementary school at Berwick, a two-room school with only six in her grade, but 20-24 kids in her classroom (3-4 grade levels) Woodside Junior High, and Saydel High School. She graduated from NWMSU in 1971 and received her Master’s Degree from NWMSU in 1977. She has traveled extensively with Plymouth Chancel Choir. Her husband, Mike, passed away 2010. Linda has three children: Angela, Aaron in New York City, and Alyssa in Kansas City, along with five grandchildren: Emma, Dylan, Tyler, Ava and Alerick, and son-in-laws Doug and Mark.
Linda was a music teacher at Saydel from 1971-1987 and children’s choir director Plymouth UCC Sacred Heart Catholic. Since 1984, she’s been with First Realty as a Sales Associate. Linda is a part of the Greater Iowa Credit Union Board of Directors, Des Moines Women’s Club, Music Chairperson, Director of Chorus. She’s a part of Kappa Kappa Iota, Saydel Education Association, Family Centered Childbirth Education Association as Board member and Childbirth Educator, Plymouth UCC Chancel Choir and Flute Ensemble, Singing Grannies and Pans Pipes and Sacred Heart Spirit Singers.
Ann McGowan
Birthday: September 17
Education: Drake University, Music Education (flute), 1970. Pi Chapter
Offices: President, Vice President Program and Secretary.
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Flute, voice, piano and guitar
Ann is a native of Greenfield, Iowa. After graduating from Drake, she began a 34-year career of teaching elementary music in the Colfax-Mingo school district. One highlight of her teaching career was acquiring MIE (Music in Education) keyboards for her classroom. She went for a week-long training session in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She started her church music career in 1973 as choir director at First Presbyterian Church in Colfax. In 1984 Ann was hired as music director at Cottage Grove Avenue Presbyterian Church in Des Moines. When she retired from teaching in 2004, Ann started teaching Sunday school to the Sudanese refugee children of her church. The following year, Ann started working in the church office as administrative assistant. As of Sept 1, 2011, she retired from all her duties at the church. Her family includes husband Terry and cat Ali. Ann enjoys reading, going to the Playhouse and Civic Center, doing Sudoku, knitting, and watching Drake sporting events.
Education: Drake University, Music Education (flute), 1970. Pi Chapter
Offices: President, Vice President Program and Secretary.
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Flute, voice, piano and guitar
Ann is a native of Greenfield, Iowa. After graduating from Drake, she began a 34-year career of teaching elementary music in the Colfax-Mingo school district. One highlight of her teaching career was acquiring MIE (Music in Education) keyboards for her classroom. She went for a week-long training session in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She started her church music career in 1973 as choir director at First Presbyterian Church in Colfax. In 1984 Ann was hired as music director at Cottage Grove Avenue Presbyterian Church in Des Moines. When she retired from teaching in 2004, Ann started teaching Sunday school to the Sudanese refugee children of her church. The following year, Ann started working in the church office as administrative assistant. As of Sept 1, 2011, she retired from all her duties at the church. Her family includes husband Terry and cat Ali. Ann enjoys reading, going to the Playhouse and Civic Center, doing Sudoku, knitting, and watching Drake sporting events.
Melissa McGrannahan
Birthday: August 24, 1978
Education: University of Nevada, Reno, English, 1997. Eta Omicron Chapter
Offices: President (Tallahassee Alumnae Chapter)
Other Alumnae Chapters: Reno and Tallahassee Alumnae
Musical Talent: Clarinet
Melissa has always enjoyed music. She likes to listen to it, play it, make it, dance to it…anything. She started playing the clarinet when she was in 6th grade because she wanted to be just like her big sister and mom who also used to play the clarinet. Melissa played all throughout middle school, high school and college. Her mother-in-law is also in SAI, which is how she first learned about the organization when she was in high school. Melissa has been married to her high-school sweetheart, Grady McGrannahan, for eight years. They have one dog, Astro, and one cat, Sofie. They keep the household plenty busy and entertained! They hope to expand their human family soon.
Melissa currently teaches students about Earth and the environment at a local Des Moines high school. Before she decided to go back to school to get a teaching and chemistry degree, she was an Administrative Assistant for the Askew School of Public Administration at Florida State University in Tallahassee. She also worked for the Marion-Polk County Medical Society in Salem, Oregon as their Marketing and Events Coordinator. While in college, Melissa was a hospital pharmacy technician at a local hospital in Sparks, Nevada. When she’s not planning lessons, Melissa loves to cook and try new recipes. She also likes to swim and work in the garden.
Education: University of Nevada, Reno, English, 1997. Eta Omicron Chapter
Offices: President (Tallahassee Alumnae Chapter)
Other Alumnae Chapters: Reno and Tallahassee Alumnae
Musical Talent: Clarinet
Melissa has always enjoyed music. She likes to listen to it, play it, make it, dance to it…anything. She started playing the clarinet when she was in 6th grade because she wanted to be just like her big sister and mom who also used to play the clarinet. Melissa played all throughout middle school, high school and college. Her mother-in-law is also in SAI, which is how she first learned about the organization when she was in high school. Melissa has been married to her high-school sweetheart, Grady McGrannahan, for eight years. They have one dog, Astro, and one cat, Sofie. They keep the household plenty busy and entertained! They hope to expand their human family soon.
Melissa currently teaches students about Earth and the environment at a local Des Moines high school. Before she decided to go back to school to get a teaching and chemistry degree, she was an Administrative Assistant for the Askew School of Public Administration at Florida State University in Tallahassee. She also worked for the Marion-Polk County Medical Society in Salem, Oregon as their Marketing and Events Coordinator. While in college, Melissa was a hospital pharmacy technician at a local hospital in Sparks, Nevada. When she’s not planning lessons, Melissa loves to cook and try new recipes. She also likes to swim and work in the garden.
Pamela Miller
Birthday: February 17, 1978
Education: University of Nebraska, Lincoln, 2006 Kappa Chapter
Offices: Secretary
Musical Talent: Vocalist
Pamela received her Bachelor of Music Degree from York College in 2001. She received her Master’s of Music Degree from the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 2006 and went on to continue toward a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance. She is currently a DMA Candidate at UNL. Her family includes her husband, Lester Ray Miller III, and two daughters, Madelynn and Audrey. Pamela is a private voice instructor in Ankeny, Iowa.
Education: University of Nebraska, Lincoln, 2006 Kappa Chapter
Offices: Secretary
Musical Talent: Vocalist
Pamela received her Bachelor of Music Degree from York College in 2001. She received her Master’s of Music Degree from the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 2006 and went on to continue toward a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance. She is currently a DMA Candidate at UNL. Her family includes her husband, Lester Ray Miller III, and two daughters, Madelynn and Audrey. Pamela is a private voice instructor in Ankeny, Iowa.
Sylvia Nelson
Birthday: January 1, 1938
Education: Fort Hays Kansas State University, Hays, KS. Bachelor Music Education (voice major - flute and piano minor),1959. Alpha Phi Chapter
Offices: President, VP, Recording and corresponding Secretary, Chaplain
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Rose of Dedication, current SAI National Honorary Membership Chairman
Other Alumnae Chapters: Bloomington, Normal, Illinois
Musical Talent: Vocal, flute and piano
Sylvia is retired (past elementary teacher, piano teacher, choir director, and director of music at St. Stephen Lutheran). She is a member St. Stephen Leadership Board (property liaison), Pan Pipes, Chapter HY-PEO, Singing Grannies, Urbandale Country Club, Bridge group and bell choir. Sylvia and her late husband have 2 children, plus daughter-in-law and son-in-law, 2 grandsons and 2 granddaughters, and her 1 ½-year-old Welsh Corgie dog, Molly.
Sylvia has done many things. She was self-employed from 1979-2000 as a piano teacher, Director of music/adult choir at St. Stephen Lutheran from 1980-1999, Elementary classroom/music from 1965-1969, and Elementary music 1959-1961. Sylvia’s hobbies include knitting, sewing, reading, playing piano, bridge and golf. She enjoys going out to lunch/dinner with friends, plays piano once a month for worship at Urbandale Care Center and plays approximately once a month for Saturday evening worship at St. Stephen.
Education: Fort Hays Kansas State University, Hays, KS. Bachelor Music Education (voice major - flute and piano minor),1959. Alpha Phi Chapter
Offices: President, VP, Recording and corresponding Secretary, Chaplain
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Rose of Dedication, current SAI National Honorary Membership Chairman
Other Alumnae Chapters: Bloomington, Normal, Illinois
Musical Talent: Vocal, flute and piano
Sylvia is retired (past elementary teacher, piano teacher, choir director, and director of music at St. Stephen Lutheran). She is a member St. Stephen Leadership Board (property liaison), Pan Pipes, Chapter HY-PEO, Singing Grannies, Urbandale Country Club, Bridge group and bell choir. Sylvia and her late husband have 2 children, plus daughter-in-law and son-in-law, 2 grandsons and 2 granddaughters, and her 1 ½-year-old Welsh Corgie dog, Molly.
Sylvia has done many things. She was self-employed from 1979-2000 as a piano teacher, Director of music/adult choir at St. Stephen Lutheran from 1980-1999, Elementary classroom/music from 1965-1969, and Elementary music 1959-1961. Sylvia’s hobbies include knitting, sewing, reading, playing piano, bridge and golf. She enjoys going out to lunch/dinner with friends, plays piano once a month for worship at Urbandale Care Center and plays approximately once a month for Saturday evening worship at St. Stephen.
Jennifer Norton
Birthday: January 15
Education: Truman State University, Music. Epsilon Pi
Offices: President, Secretary, Vice President Ritual, current Xi B Province Officer
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Flute and piano
Jennifer was born in Iowa, but was raised on a family farm in northeast Missouri. She graduated from Macon High School in 1992 and went to Truman State University to major in music. When all was said and done, she ended up leaving Truman with two bachelor’s degrees (music and flute performance) and two Master’s degrees (Education and Flute Performance). Her first job was in the Des Moines schools at Lovejoy, and she’s stayed there ever since.
Jennifer has two Maine Coon cats named Raleigh and Macon. (“They both came to me already named and thought it interesting that one was named after my hometown.”) Jennifer sings barbershop and other a cappella music with the Harmony Central Chorus.
Education: Truman State University, Music. Epsilon Pi
Offices: President, Secretary, Vice President Ritual, current Xi B Province Officer
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Flute and piano
Jennifer was born in Iowa, but was raised on a family farm in northeast Missouri. She graduated from Macon High School in 1992 and went to Truman State University to major in music. When all was said and done, she ended up leaving Truman with two bachelor’s degrees (music and flute performance) and two Master’s degrees (Education and Flute Performance). Her first job was in the Des Moines schools at Lovejoy, and she’s stayed there ever since.
Jennifer has two Maine Coon cats named Raleigh and Macon. (“They both came to me already named and thought it interesting that one was named after my hometown.”) Jennifer sings barbershop and other a cappella music with the Harmony Central Chorus.
Pam Prouty
Birthday: October 24, 1944
Education: Drake University, Music Education and Piano Major, 1964. Pi Chapter
Offices: President, VP Membership, VP Ritual, Secretary, Treasurer. Xi B Province officer 1993-2003 Collegiate comment editor for PAN PIPES (now Temp) 2003-Present. Nominating Chair for 2006 National Convention, Philanthropies Scholarships Coordinator – 2009-present
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Rose of Dedication, Wreath of Achievement
Musical Talent: Piano
Pam is married and has 2 children and 5 grandchildren. She has taught private piano lessons in the Des Moines Public Schools since 1977, has accompanied students in competitions, and has adjudicated at piano competitions in the area. She is active in the First Christian Church in Adel as pianist and choir director. Pam’s hobbies include gardening, reading, and attending grandchildren’s events. She is involved with the Des Moines Music Teachers Association: Fortnightly Musical Club.
Education: Drake University, Music Education and Piano Major, 1964. Pi Chapter
Offices: President, VP Membership, VP Ritual, Secretary, Treasurer. Xi B Province officer 1993-2003 Collegiate comment editor for PAN PIPES (now Temp) 2003-Present. Nominating Chair for 2006 National Convention, Philanthropies Scholarships Coordinator – 2009-present
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Rose of Dedication, Wreath of Achievement
Musical Talent: Piano
Pam is married and has 2 children and 5 grandchildren. She has taught private piano lessons in the Des Moines Public Schools since 1977, has accompanied students in competitions, and has adjudicated at piano competitions in the area. She is active in the First Christian Church in Adel as pianist and choir director. Pam’s hobbies include gardening, reading, and attending grandchildren’s events. She is involved with the Des Moines Music Teachers Association: Fortnightly Musical Club.
Marti Puff
Birthday: January 1
Education: Stanford, BA Music, 1964. Gamma Beta
Offices: Vice President Ritual
San Francisco – President (Twice), Vice President Program, Editor
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Vocal, Some Piano
Marti was born in Birmingham, Iowa and lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for 42 years. She has performed in musicals and vocal groups and sang with the San Francisco Opera Chorus for a few weeks.
Marti has two brothers, 10 and 12 years older than her. She is currently retired. She had her own business bookkeeping and tax planning/preparation for individuals and small business for 22 years.
Marti is a member of PEO, Des Moines Women’s Club, and Treble Clef Club, and she enjoys hiking in the mountains and reading.
Education: Stanford, BA Music, 1964. Gamma Beta
Offices: Vice President Ritual
San Francisco – President (Twice), Vice President Program, Editor
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Vocal, Some Piano
Marti was born in Birmingham, Iowa and lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for 42 years. She has performed in musicals and vocal groups and sang with the San Francisco Opera Chorus for a few weeks.
Marti has two brothers, 10 and 12 years older than her. She is currently retired. She had her own business bookkeeping and tax planning/preparation for individuals and small business for 22 years.
Marti is a member of PEO, Des Moines Women’s Club, and Treble Clef Club, and she enjoys hiking in the mountains and reading.
E. Jane Ruby
Birthday: December 3, 1918
Education: Iowa State Teachers College, BA Music, 1941. Drake University MME 1961, Post-Graduate University of Iowa 950-1955 & 1961-1966, University of Indiana, University of Minnesota, DePaul University
Offices : President: 1980-1982, Vice-President 1978-1980 Various appointive offices, Most recently Historical & Kathleen Davison Award, XI B Province Officer 1984-1993
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Rose of Dedication, Wreath of Achievement, SAI Leadership Award – Region II. Musical Talent: Piano, organ, bassoon, and choral conductor.
Jane was born in Mason City, Iowa, and graduated from Rudd Consolidated Schools in 1937. She was married to Lloyd C. Ruby for 47 years. She lived in Fairfield, Iowa from 1948 to 1973, when they moved to Des Moines. She and her husband wintered in Mesa, Arizona for several years following their retirement. Jane moved to Scottish Rite Park Retirement home in 1996 following Lloyd’s death. She enjoyed traveling to many foreign countries with close friends for several years and continues to play the piano for various SRP activities. She plays lots of bridge, enjoys eating out with special friends, attends organization meetings, and enjoys life to the fullest at the tender age of 92. Other hobbies include reading and needlework. Her family includes husband Lloyd, deceased; 7 nieces and nephews, 16 great-nieces and nephews, 19 great-great-nieces and nephews.
Jane taught general and choral music in the Fairfield, Hampton, and Leon public schools. Her choirs were frequent guest performers for the Music Educators Association at the national and regional conventions. She taught and chaired departments in music education, particularly secondary choral music education, at Drake University, the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and Parsons College. She was also the organist and Director of Choral Music at Parsons College, where choirs toured the Midwest each year and were guest choirs for the Iowa Choral Directors Association. She has directed church choirs and played organ at First Christian Church in Fairfield, and directed the Men’s Chorus and Celebration Quartet at West Des Moines United Methodist for 19 ½ years. Celebration Quartet’s ministry took them to churches and venues throughout the Midwest. She has also served as Substitute Organist for various churches in Des Moines.
Jane has been a member and leader of the Iowa Music Educators Association (President 1969-1971, Secretary-Treasurer and Vice-President 1964-1969); Choral Chair for the All-State Chorus, 1957-1964; Board of Directors Member of Music Educators National Conference, 1969-1971; American Choral Directors Association and ICDA; American Guild of Organists (past Dean, Ottumwa, Iowa Chapter). She has also been involved in PEO – GH Chapter (past president and delegate at 3 State Conventions); Treble Clef Music Club (past president, vice-president, and secretary/treasurer); Choral Director, Treble Clef Chorus, 1983-1997; Des Moines Women’s Club (Music Chair and organist); Living History Farms (tour guide/interpreter at the Flynn Mansion); and Scottish Rite Park (musician, chair of several committees, and past president of Resident Council).
Jane’s honors include: Distinguished Service Award, Iowa Music Educators Association, 1984; Robert McCowen Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions to Choral Music, 1967; Pi Kapppa Lambda; Phi Kappa Phi.
Education: Iowa State Teachers College, BA Music, 1941. Drake University MME 1961, Post-Graduate University of Iowa 950-1955 & 1961-1966, University of Indiana, University of Minnesota, DePaul University
Offices : President: 1980-1982, Vice-President 1978-1980 Various appointive offices, Most recently Historical & Kathleen Davison Award, XI B Province Officer 1984-1993
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Rose of Dedication, Wreath of Achievement, SAI Leadership Award – Region II. Musical Talent: Piano, organ, bassoon, and choral conductor.
Jane was born in Mason City, Iowa, and graduated from Rudd Consolidated Schools in 1937. She was married to Lloyd C. Ruby for 47 years. She lived in Fairfield, Iowa from 1948 to 1973, when they moved to Des Moines. She and her husband wintered in Mesa, Arizona for several years following their retirement. Jane moved to Scottish Rite Park Retirement home in 1996 following Lloyd’s death. She enjoyed traveling to many foreign countries with close friends for several years and continues to play the piano for various SRP activities. She plays lots of bridge, enjoys eating out with special friends, attends organization meetings, and enjoys life to the fullest at the tender age of 92. Other hobbies include reading and needlework. Her family includes husband Lloyd, deceased; 7 nieces and nephews, 16 great-nieces and nephews, 19 great-great-nieces and nephews.
Jane taught general and choral music in the Fairfield, Hampton, and Leon public schools. Her choirs were frequent guest performers for the Music Educators Association at the national and regional conventions. She taught and chaired departments in music education, particularly secondary choral music education, at Drake University, the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and Parsons College. She was also the organist and Director of Choral Music at Parsons College, where choirs toured the Midwest each year and were guest choirs for the Iowa Choral Directors Association. She has directed church choirs and played organ at First Christian Church in Fairfield, and directed the Men’s Chorus and Celebration Quartet at West Des Moines United Methodist for 19 ½ years. Celebration Quartet’s ministry took them to churches and venues throughout the Midwest. She has also served as Substitute Organist for various churches in Des Moines.
Jane has been a member and leader of the Iowa Music Educators Association (President 1969-1971, Secretary-Treasurer and Vice-President 1964-1969); Choral Chair for the All-State Chorus, 1957-1964; Board of Directors Member of Music Educators National Conference, 1969-1971; American Choral Directors Association and ICDA; American Guild of Organists (past Dean, Ottumwa, Iowa Chapter). She has also been involved in PEO – GH Chapter (past president and delegate at 3 State Conventions); Treble Clef Music Club (past president, vice-president, and secretary/treasurer); Choral Director, Treble Clef Chorus, 1983-1997; Des Moines Women’s Club (Music Chair and organist); Living History Farms (tour guide/interpreter at the Flynn Mansion); and Scottish Rite Park (musician, chair of several committees, and past president of Resident Council).
Jane’s honors include: Distinguished Service Award, Iowa Music Educators Association, 1984; Robert McCowen Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions to Choral Music, 1967; Pi Kapppa Lambda; Phi Kappa Phi.
Amy Saylor
Birthday: January 8
Education: Drake University, Bachelor of Music with an Emphasis in Business, 1992. Pi Chapter
Offices: Vice President, Ritual – Phoenix Alumnae Chapter, 1997-98; Treasurer – Ann Arbor Alumnae Chapter, 2001-2003
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Wreath of Achievement
Other Alumnae Chapters: Phoenix and Ann Arbor
Musical Talent: Oboe
Amy was a proud member of Pi Chapter at Drake University from her affiliation in April 1992 until graduation in 1995. She held the offices of Corresponding Secretary and Vice President, Membership. She later joined the Des Moines Alumnae Chapter during the 1995-1996 school year. After getting married in the summer of 1996, Amy and her husband, Eric, moved to Arizona for Eric’s graduate school, and she joined the Phoenix Alumnae Chapter. After spending the 1998-1999 school year living in London, England, they moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan in the fall of 1999 so Eric could work on his doctoral degree. From 2000-2003, she was the advisor for the Alpha Chapter at the University of Michigan. The chapter was down to one member, and she recruited new members and acted as all officers until the chapter was on its feet again. Amy was the delegate for the Ann Arbor Alumnae Chapter at the Centennial Convention in 2003. Eric and Amy moved back to Des Moines in the late summer of 2003 so Eric could take the position of Music History Professor at Drake. Also in the fall of 2003, Amy was appointed Director of the newly created Professional Development/Education Grant for SAI Philanthropies, Inc. She served as director until after the 2006 convention when she was asked to serve as Secretary on the SAI Philanthropies Board. She is now in her 6th year as secretary.
Amy’s family includes husband Eric, daughters Gillian, born in 2005, and Tamsin, born in 2008. Amy currently teaches oboe and piano part-time at Riemans and Keyboard West Studios. She also does special marketing projects for Keyboard West. From 2003-2005, she worked for the Des Moines Symphony Academy as the registrar and from 1999-2003 and worked at Shar Music Company as the Marketing Coordinator. Amy loves to bake and cook, and is a huge Chicago Cubs fan. She also belongs to MOMS Club of West Des Moines.
Education: Drake University, Bachelor of Music with an Emphasis in Business, 1992. Pi Chapter
Offices: Vice President, Ritual – Phoenix Alumnae Chapter, 1997-98; Treasurer – Ann Arbor Alumnae Chapter, 2001-2003
Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Wreath of Achievement
Other Alumnae Chapters: Phoenix and Ann Arbor
Musical Talent: Oboe
Amy was a proud member of Pi Chapter at Drake University from her affiliation in April 1992 until graduation in 1995. She held the offices of Corresponding Secretary and Vice President, Membership. She later joined the Des Moines Alumnae Chapter during the 1995-1996 school year. After getting married in the summer of 1996, Amy and her husband, Eric, moved to Arizona for Eric’s graduate school, and she joined the Phoenix Alumnae Chapter. After spending the 1998-1999 school year living in London, England, they moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan in the fall of 1999 so Eric could work on his doctoral degree. From 2000-2003, she was the advisor for the Alpha Chapter at the University of Michigan. The chapter was down to one member, and she recruited new members and acted as all officers until the chapter was on its feet again. Amy was the delegate for the Ann Arbor Alumnae Chapter at the Centennial Convention in 2003. Eric and Amy moved back to Des Moines in the late summer of 2003 so Eric could take the position of Music History Professor at Drake. Also in the fall of 2003, Amy was appointed Director of the newly created Professional Development/Education Grant for SAI Philanthropies, Inc. She served as director until after the 2006 convention when she was asked to serve as Secretary on the SAI Philanthropies Board. She is now in her 6th year as secretary.
Amy’s family includes husband Eric, daughters Gillian, born in 2005, and Tamsin, born in 2008. Amy currently teaches oboe and piano part-time at Riemans and Keyboard West Studios. She also does special marketing projects for Keyboard West. From 2003-2005, she worked for the Des Moines Symphony Academy as the registrar and from 1999-2003 and worked at Shar Music Company as the Marketing Coordinator. Amy loves to bake and cook, and is a huge Chicago Cubs fan. She also belongs to MOMS Club of West Des Moines.
Cindy Short
Birthday: February 5
Education: University of Northern Iowa, Bachelor of Music Education. Alpha Upsilon Chapter
Musical Talent: Euphonium, vocal, some trombone
Born and raised in Ottumwa, Cindy attended graduated from UNI with a BME degree, married Mike and moved to the Chicago area. There mostly they lived in Evanston for 6 year while their son and daughter were born and then moved to Des Moines in 1986. She’s been active in brass music performances and working in offices as high level administrative work, mostly in sales and marketing. Her family includes husband Mike, son Tom, 29, and daughter June, 27, and two cats. Cindy is currently with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage as a Loan Specialist 2. Before that, she was with MediNotes, Kuder Career Testing, Tone’s Spices, Council on Chiropractic Education, Packaging Corp of America, Share Morahan, and UNI Library.
Cindy has been the past Secretary and Newsletter editor for North of Grand Neighborhood Association; past recipient of the Alice Rodine Award, Des Moines Neighborhood Association; current Board Member, Des Moines Musicians Association; VP/Secretary, Dealer Tuba Supply INC; Friends for the Helen’s Pajama Party; past writer, International Tuba-Euphonium Association, New Music Reviews; past organizer, Annual Bill Bell Memorial Tuba Day in Perry; Past Board member, Music Under the Stars; and solo euphonium player, Des Moines Municipal Band and Music Under the Stars.
Education: University of Northern Iowa, Bachelor of Music Education. Alpha Upsilon Chapter
Musical Talent: Euphonium, vocal, some trombone
Born and raised in Ottumwa, Cindy attended graduated from UNI with a BME degree, married Mike and moved to the Chicago area. There mostly they lived in Evanston for 6 year while their son and daughter were born and then moved to Des Moines in 1986. She’s been active in brass music performances and working in offices as high level administrative work, mostly in sales and marketing. Her family includes husband Mike, son Tom, 29, and daughter June, 27, and two cats. Cindy is currently with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage as a Loan Specialist 2. Before that, she was with MediNotes, Kuder Career Testing, Tone’s Spices, Council on Chiropractic Education, Packaging Corp of America, Share Morahan, and UNI Library.
Cindy has been the past Secretary and Newsletter editor for North of Grand Neighborhood Association; past recipient of the Alice Rodine Award, Des Moines Neighborhood Association; current Board Member, Des Moines Musicians Association; VP/Secretary, Dealer Tuba Supply INC; Friends for the Helen’s Pajama Party; past writer, International Tuba-Euphonium Association, New Music Reviews; past organizer, Annual Bill Bell Memorial Tuba Day in Perry; Past Board member, Music Under the Stars; and solo euphonium player, Des Moines Municipal Band and Music Under the Stars.
Diane Smith
Birthday: August 2
Education: Moorhead State University BA/BS Major Music, Piano, Vocal and Instrumental. Gamma Xi
Awards: Sword of Honor and Ruby Sword of Honor
Offices: Secretary , President in College
Musical Talent: Piano
Diane teaches independent piano. She taught for 49 years and ran the Kinder Music program in Des Moines, the largest in the United States, for 15 years. She worked at Grand Forks Air Force Base while her husband was in the service, and then lived in Casper and Helena, WY and Bismarck, ND before coming to Des Moines. Diane helped organize the Music Teachers Federation and is part of the Guild. She is a former president of IMTA and received the Certified Teacher of the Year and Distinguished Service awards. Diane has been active in MTNA as competition chair, historian, secretary, foundation chair, and board member. She and her husband, Jim, have two children, and she will be a first-time grandmother in February 2012. Her hobbies include reading and hardanger, or "Hardangersøm," which is Norwegian embroidery.
Education: Moorhead State University BA/BS Major Music, Piano, Vocal and Instrumental. Gamma Xi
Awards: Sword of Honor and Ruby Sword of Honor
Offices: Secretary , President in College
Musical Talent: Piano
Diane teaches independent piano. She taught for 49 years and ran the Kinder Music program in Des Moines, the largest in the United States, for 15 years. She worked at Grand Forks Air Force Base while her husband was in the service, and then lived in Casper and Helena, WY and Bismarck, ND before coming to Des Moines. Diane helped organize the Music Teachers Federation and is part of the Guild. She is a former president of IMTA and received the Certified Teacher of the Year and Distinguished Service awards. Diane has been active in MTNA as competition chair, historian, secretary, foundation chair, and board member. She and her husband, Jim, have two children, and she will be a first-time grandmother in February 2012. Her hobbies include reading and hardanger, or "Hardangersøm," which is Norwegian embroidery.
Ruth A. Sparks Staplin
Birthday: October 24, 1965
Education: Drake University, BS in Management, Academic Minor in Music, 1989. Masters in Business Administration, 1999. Pi Chapter
Offices: President, Secretary, Kathleen Davison Scholarship Selection Committee, Program Committee.
Awards: Undergraduate - Sword of Honor, Alumnae - Rose of Honor
Musical Talent: Trombone, vocal, and handbells
Ruth was born in Guthrie Center, Iowa, and grew up in Grand Junction, Iowa, and Ogden, Iowa, and was active in music, sports, and drama. She also worked walking beans, detasseling, and as a Certified Nurses' Aide. She graduated from Ogden High School in 1984. Ruth attended Drake and was active in marching band, concert band, wind ensemble, jazz band, orchestra, and Drake Choir. She worked in the Band Office all five years at Drake and met Bill in jazz band. Her family includes husband Dr. William Staplin (married for 9 years) and children Mary, 7, and Esther, 6.
Ruth currently works as a Senior Program Director at SUMO Group. Previously, she was a Senior Program Director at State Public Policy Group. Ruth is active at her church, Westminster Presbyterian. She is in Westminster Chimes hand bell choir, and also helps teach Kids of the Kingdom (K-1st grade) during Westminster Wednesday. She was on the Search Committee for the Minister of Music & Fine Arts, serving as Secretary of the committee. She volunteers with Everybody Wins, where she spends an hour a week reading with two 4th graders at Walnut Street School. Ruth is a graduate of the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute (Class of 2001), and served on the Planning Committee for the Youth Leadership Program's inaugural year in 2004. She is a former board member of Civic Music Association, and has been active in the Walnut Street School PTO and the Hubbell Elementary School PTA. She enjoys reading and spending time with her family.
Education: Drake University, BS in Management, Academic Minor in Music, 1989. Masters in Business Administration, 1999. Pi Chapter
Offices: President, Secretary, Kathleen Davison Scholarship Selection Committee, Program Committee.
Awards: Undergraduate - Sword of Honor, Alumnae - Rose of Honor
Musical Talent: Trombone, vocal, and handbells
Ruth was born in Guthrie Center, Iowa, and grew up in Grand Junction, Iowa, and Ogden, Iowa, and was active in music, sports, and drama. She also worked walking beans, detasseling, and as a Certified Nurses' Aide. She graduated from Ogden High School in 1984. Ruth attended Drake and was active in marching band, concert band, wind ensemble, jazz band, orchestra, and Drake Choir. She worked in the Band Office all five years at Drake and met Bill in jazz band. Her family includes husband Dr. William Staplin (married for 9 years) and children Mary, 7, and Esther, 6.
Ruth currently works as a Senior Program Director at SUMO Group. Previously, she was a Senior Program Director at State Public Policy Group. Ruth is active at her church, Westminster Presbyterian. She is in Westminster Chimes hand bell choir, and also helps teach Kids of the Kingdom (K-1st grade) during Westminster Wednesday. She was on the Search Committee for the Minister of Music & Fine Arts, serving as Secretary of the committee. She volunteers with Everybody Wins, where she spends an hour a week reading with two 4th graders at Walnut Street School. Ruth is a graduate of the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute (Class of 2001), and served on the Planning Committee for the Youth Leadership Program's inaugural year in 2004. She is a former board member of Civic Music Association, and has been active in the Walnut Street School PTO and the Hubbell Elementary School PTA. She enjoys reading and spending time with her family.
Dr. Jane A. Watkins
Birthday: January 9, 1948
Education: Truman State University, Bachelor of Music Education, 1970, Epsilon Pi
Other Alumnae Chapters: Started the SAI Chapter at Truman State University
Musical Talent: Piano
Jane received a Bachelor of Music Education – Piano at Truman State University in 1970; Master of Arts and Humanities at Truman State University in 1975; Specialist Degree in Adult Education at the University of Missouri – Columbia in 1985; and Doctorate in Higher Education at Oklahoma State University in 1996. She taught junior high vocal music and humanities in Marshalltown and Riverview Gardens in St. Louis, Missouri. She is Associate Professor and Division Chair, Associate of Arts Degree at William Penn University College for Working Adults in West Des Moines and Oskaloosa, Iowa. Jane is a member of the Board of Directors of the Goodwill Industries of Central Iowa.
Education: Truman State University, Bachelor of Music Education, 1970, Epsilon Pi
Other Alumnae Chapters: Started the SAI Chapter at Truman State University
Musical Talent: Piano
Jane received a Bachelor of Music Education – Piano at Truman State University in 1970; Master of Arts and Humanities at Truman State University in 1975; Specialist Degree in Adult Education at the University of Missouri – Columbia in 1985; and Doctorate in Higher Education at Oklahoma State University in 1996. She taught junior high vocal music and humanities in Marshalltown and Riverview Gardens in St. Louis, Missouri. She is Associate Professor and Division Chair, Associate of Arts Degree at William Penn University College for Working Adults in West Des Moines and Oskaloosa, Iowa. Jane is a member of the Board of Directors of the Goodwill Industries of Central Iowa.
Jennifer Wohlenhaus Bloomberg
Birthday: October 30, 1972
Education: Drake University, Double major in Applied Music (Oboe) and Music with Elective Studies in Business, 1992. Pi Chapter
Offices: Pi Liaison
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Oboe, piano, organ, and bassoon
Jennifer grew up on a farm in southwest Iowa near Atlantic and then graduated from Drake in 1995 and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 1997. She is currently working on her DMA Essay at the University of Iowa. Music has always been a big part of her life because her mother is a musician. She has been performing in some capacity (dance, piano) since she was very young. Her family includes husband Steve Bloomberg, daughter Vanessa Bloomberg (born 4/12/11) , dog Izzy and goldfish Clover.
Jennifer is the Principal Oboe of the Des Moines Symphony, Adjunct faculty at Drake University (teaching oboe, bassoon, theory and ear training), Adjunct faculty at Grinnell College (teaching oboe and bassoon), Organist for the Ankeny United Church of Christ, and has a private studio of about 12 students. She has also worked at Keyboard West as a group piano instructor and at the Des Moines Playhouse in the Box Office. Jennifer enjoys dancing, reading, walking, ice skating, shopping and spending time with friends and family. She is a member of the International Double Reed Society, MTNA and DMMTA.
Education: Drake University, Double major in Applied Music (Oboe) and Music with Elective Studies in Business, 1992. Pi Chapter
Offices: Pi Liaison
Awards: Sword of Honor
Musical Talent: Oboe, piano, organ, and bassoon
Jennifer grew up on a farm in southwest Iowa near Atlantic and then graduated from Drake in 1995 and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 1997. She is currently working on her DMA Essay at the University of Iowa. Music has always been a big part of her life because her mother is a musician. She has been performing in some capacity (dance, piano) since she was very young. Her family includes husband Steve Bloomberg, daughter Vanessa Bloomberg (born 4/12/11) , dog Izzy and goldfish Clover.
Jennifer is the Principal Oboe of the Des Moines Symphony, Adjunct faculty at Drake University (teaching oboe, bassoon, theory and ear training), Adjunct faculty at Grinnell College (teaching oboe and bassoon), Organist for the Ankeny United Church of Christ, and has a private studio of about 12 students. She has also worked at Keyboard West as a group piano instructor and at the Des Moines Playhouse in the Box Office. Jennifer enjoys dancing, reading, walking, ice skating, shopping and spending time with friends and family. She is a member of the International Double Reed Society, MTNA and DMMTA.
