Jo Ann Miller, University Distinguished Professor and NDSU director of choral activities, recently was named the recipient of the 2021 Governor’s Award winner in the category of Arts in Education.
“I was born and raised in North Dakota and have been privileged to build my career at NDSU. Being recognized by my home state is very heart-warming,” Miller said. ‘I am grateful for this award and thankful to the colleagues and friends who have been a part of the journey of providing meaningful education in the arts to the students in North Dakota.”
Miller has directed NDSU choral activities since 1989. She conducts the Concert Choir and teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in conducting and choral literature. She leads popular annual events, such as the Baroque Festival and performances of Handel’s "Messiah."
She earned her bachelor’s degree at NDSU, master’s degree at the University of North Dakota and doctorate from the University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music. Miller is actively involved in the American Choral Director’s Association and has held several state and national leadership positions.
Other announced winners include Maryhill Manor in Enderlin, which partnered with the Enderlin Municipal Fine Arts Association to win in the category of Private Business; Minot Area Council of the Arts for Arts Organization; Individual Achievement went to Melissa Gordan of Bismarck, and David Trottier of Rugby; and the Individual Cultural Heritage award went to Rex Cook of Dickinson.
The Governor’s Awards for the Arts program was established in 1977 to recognize individuals and organizations that for contributions to the arts across the state.
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