Early in the spring of 2022, I was added to a group chat via text. The topic of the chat was possible candidates to serve as the next president-elect of AMEA. Thoughtfully, I suggested several folks’ names and was told by the other texters, “Yes…” That person would be a great leader, but let’s think of others. After some back-and-forth, someone said, “What about you, Phil?” Immediately, I said no. They asked why not, and I shared how great an organization I thought AMEA was and how I did not feel my leadership skills were adequate to lead it. I continued stating that no one really knew me, and I would be a waste of a nominee. I then proceeded to throw out other names, yet my name kept coming up. After what felt like hours of texting, I relented and allowed my name to be put forward as a nominee for president-elect.
At the conference the following January, the slate of officers was presented to the membership before voting began. I was sick and not able to attend. So not only would people not know my name, but they would also not know my face, which certainly doomed my chances of becoming president-elect. Once voting ended, I received an email confirming that I had been elected to office, and my journey began soon afterward. What a journey it has been!
During my first months in office, my plan was to sit back, observe, and absorb all that I could, but AMEA is not built that way. During our first board meeting in June alone, I was thrust into hiring an assistant executive director, conference planning, and other business for AMEA. People were looking for my voice to add to the chorus of decisions that had to be made about the association. Throughout that first year, I shook hands with music icons in this state and learned they were once like me: music teachers looking to make a difference in the lives of the students entrusted to their care. At the national level, I observed leaders from other state MEAs searching for the same things Alabama was and realized we had more in common than what divided us. I truly saw AMEA from a different perspective and appreciated it even more than before. While AMEA is not perfect, I believe we try hard to meet some of the needs of most members.
I tell this story in a humble attempt to encourage you who feel no one knows you, your name, or your work, that you are seen. Someone is watching, even when you are unaware. Although you may not hear it, someone is calling your name in rooms and circles where decisions are being made. The question now is what will you do when you are called?
Here are my asks:
Step up: Don’t let fear stop you from making a difference wherever you are. You do not need a title at your school or association to make a difference. You know where the needs are. Go help address them.
Share ideas: During my presidency, and those who served as president before me, we have encouraged you to share the great things that are going on in your classroom. Whether this be a clinic at our state conference, a session at a national conference, or an in-person or online workshop in your local area, you have the power to share your expertise with all who will listen.
Listen: The power to listen effectively has become a lost art. I find myself listening solely to respond to whoever is speaking to me, rather than to understand their perspective. Truly, we can all do better in this department. When you are called, listen more than you speak. Understand more than you pass judgment. This one power makes us all better.
While my time as AMEA president is quickly coming to an end, and I move into the role of immediate past president, I want you to know how grateful I am for each of you and for your work in your classrooms and for this association. Though your name may never be called, know that we see you and appreciate you. I personally thank you for the conversations and suggestions you’ve shared with me over the years. You helped me see you, and I am forever changed.
In March, during our Music in Our Schools Month celebration, I saw you as I represented AMEA at the proclamation signing ceremony by Governor Kay Ivey at the state capitol. This ceremony recognized March as Arts Education Month and celebrated the work of all the arts organizations in making our state culturally rich in music, dance, theater, and visual arts.
I saw you as you trekked to Montgomery for the annual Capital Tunes celebration during the 2026 February and March legislative session. I saw you play concerts in the rotunda of the Alabama State House and the Gordon Persons Building, which houses the Alabama Department of Education. Congratulations and thanks to the Oneonta High School Singers, Duncanville Middle School Band Small Ensemble, Thompson High School Harmonettes, Central High School Chamber Winds, Old Shell Road Choir, Forest Hills Elementary Music Club, Randolph County High School Band, and the Hampton Cove Middle School Jazz Ensemble for their outstanding performances and representations of all the divisions of AMEA. These small-group ensembles received accolades from the State Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Eric Mackey, and several arts organizations via social media and other print outlets. Thank you to the Alabama State Department of Education’s Euri Carr and the Alabama Institute for Education in the Arts for making this wonderful opportunity available for some of our students. Information regarding the Capital Tunes celebration is on our website at myamea.org.
Finally, my friends, I see how hard you’ve worked over this year and years past. I’ve seen you wipe the sweat from your brow and try to give it one more go. I’ve seen your passion for music education in all sorts of ways, but now it’s time to rest. As we close the chapter on this school year, rest knowing you gave it your all, and you were seen.
As I hand the reins of AMEA over to the new and very capable president, Dr. Travis Bender, know that I will still see you when you do wonderful things to improve music education in this state. Just as I have seen you, Travis will, and countless others.
It has been an absolute honor to serve.