This prestigious award, named in honor of Dr. Lacey Powell—a two-term AMEA President, former Executive Director, and Hall of Fame member—celebrates those who have set exemplary standards in music education. These individuals provide inspiration and guidance to us all. We invite nominations for this award, which are accepted until July 15 each year.
Below, you can find a button to submit a nomination for future award winners. We encourage you to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of your colleagues by nominating them for this esteemed award.
Further down, you’ll find a comprehensive table showcasing all previous recipients of this award, dating back to 1983. This archive honors the legacy and achievements of Alabama’s finest music educators, highlighting their dedication and impact on our profession.
| YEAR | RECIPIENT/POSITION | SCHOOL |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Heather Cantwell | Liberty Park Middle School |
| 2022 | Carrie Cruz | McCalla Elementary School |
| 2021 | Dr. Anna “Becky” Haliday | University of Montevallo |
| 2020 | Deanna Bell | Vestavia Hills Elementary East |
| 2019 | Dr. Rob Lyda | Cary Woods Elementary School, Auburn |
| 2018 | Kim Bain | Pizitz Middle School |
| 2016 | Diane Orlofsky | Troy University |
| 2015 | Lea Hoppe | Randolph School |
| 2013 | Gene Inglis | Saks High School |
| 2012 | Regina Noland | Tuscaloosa City Schools |
| 2011 | Paul Edmondson | Gadsden City High School |
| 2010 | Michael T. Nix | Lauderdale County Schools |
| 2009 | Dr. Leslie Welker | Hillcrest Middle School |
| 2007 | Dr. Johnnie Vinson | Auburn University |
| 1996 | Frances Moss | Calhoun Community College |
| 1993 | Lacey Powell | AMEA President & Executive Director |
| 1992 | Bobby McCullar | Minor High School |
| 1991 | Ted Galloway | Vestavia Hills High School |
| 1990 | Dianne Johnson | Jefferson County Schools |
| 1989 | Bill Brunner | Austin High School |
| 1988 | Hugh Thomas | Birmingham Southern College |
| 1987 | Jerry Bobo | Fayette County High School |
| 1985 | Wilbur “Bodie” Hinton | Auburn University |
| 1983 | Dr. John M. Long | Troy University |