IOSA Distinguished Service Award

The IOSA Distinguished Service Award honors those who have made remarkable contributions to music education through the Orff Schulwerk approach in Indiana. This esteemed accolade celebrates individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to enhancing music education, advancing innovative teaching practices, and nurturing a dynamic learning environment for students. Award recipients are recognized for their influential work in promoting the Orff approach, supporting fellow educators, and fostering a thriving Orff community.

Moreover, this award highlights the profound impact recipients have made on IOSA as a professional organization. Their visionary efforts have strengthened the organization’s mission, expanded its reach, and elevated the standards of music education within the community. By significantly contributing to IOSA’s growth and success, they have played a crucial role in shaping its strategic direction and influence in the field. The IOSA Distinguished Service Award not only underscores their significant impact on music education but also celebrates their pivotal role in advancing and sustaining the Orff Schulwerk approach through the organization.

Recipients

2024- Sarah Hassler

Sarah Hockman Hassler-
When looking at my CV to write a bio, it all seemed so clinical—dates, places, accomplishments. Now, as a 74-year-old retired teacher, I have had time to see my “bio” in a different way. I attempt to share that with you here. I found my passion in life as a teacher. Syncing this passion with my other passion, music, seemed like a logical union. My early teaching was not focused, and I wasn’t clear on my goals.

Taking time to pursue other interests, I became a secretary of Music History at the University of Louisville, then was promoted to be one of the secretaries to the President of U of L. Then, when we started our family, I had the joy and privilege of being at home with my children for several years.

Soon, though, I became a preschool teacher and found myself wanting to add music to all my teaching. I started searching for places that could expand my abilities, so I joined the Mid-Atlantic Orff Association and the Kodály Association, hoping to learn and grow in pedagogy. I took courses in Orff, Kodály, and Dalcroze at Towson State University in Baltimore and discovered that there was a way to be a kinesthetic teacher. That appealed to the real “me.” Music and Movement could be taught together!!!

The rest is history. I was usually one of the oldest in my classes, but I hung in and completed my levels, curriculum, and master’s degree. My passion for the child's developing voice began to also factor into my passion, and working in a choral situation bloomed. I was privileged to be an associate conductor of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir, learning from the best.

But the best part was that my teaching blossomed, and I met so many wonderful people—both teachers and students—who impacted my life. I am truly blessed. I cannot begin to name all the people who influenced me, took me under their wings, and helped me understand how to become a better educator, musician, and human.

Music education has taken me to many places in this world. Teaching internationally for three years in India was eye-opening and life-changing. Music truly is the international language we all speak. If we could make music together, there would be true peace and harmony among us.

I have always said that I had the best job in the world—I got to sing, dance, play, and create daily with children. What could be better? Now, in retirement, I look back on those years and how much I loved every minute of my associations with you all. You have lifted me up in many ways, and I will be forever grateful for your trust, musicianship, and sense of play! Someday, you will be in my shoes—retired and looking back with fondness and joy at a life well-lived, surrounded by music.

I moved to Indiana in 1996. I immediately joined IOSA. Within a year, I was on the board, helping with the sales table and food. I enjoyed helping in every way I could. I was secretary when Lisa was President and then President after her from 2006-2008.

2024- Lisa Odim

Lisa Odom is a curriculum specialist and music educator with 35 years of experience creating professional development resources and teaching K-5 students. Prior to taking a position at the University of Chicago Laboratory School in the Fall of 2023, Lisa began consulting where she provides opportunities that support and mentor music educators through professional development, individual mentor services, and “Artist in Residence” experiences. Lisa taught K-5 music for Carmel Clay Schools in Carmel, IN for 28 years and then taught K-2 music for Skokie School District 69 for 5 years. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Music from Butler University and a Master of Arts in Education from Ball State University. She served three years as the Region VI representative for the American Orff-Schulwerk Association (AOSA) and has presented at various AOSA, National Association for Music Education and Indiana Music Educators Association conferences. In 2008, Lisa was named Carmel Clay Teacher of the Year and in 2017 was named Elementary Music Teacher of the Year by the Indiana Music Education Association, signifying outstanding achievement in the field of music education. During the summer months, Lisa is an Orff Level II certified instructor for AOSA and has taught at various Orff courses throughout the country. Lisa currently serves as an adjunct faculty member and course director for the Orff Schulwerk Levels and Orff Curriculum programs at Anderson University in Anderson, IN.

Lisa Odom served as treasurer of IOSA from 1998-2001 and served as President of IOSA from 2002-2005. Lisa hosted IOSA workshops at Mohawk Trails Elementary School in Carmel for many years.

Nominate a Remarkable Educator for the IOSA Distinguished Service Award

Do you know an outstanding individual who has made a significant impact in the field of music education through the Orff Schulwerk approach? We invite you to recognize their exceptional contributions by nominating them for the IOSA Distinguished Service Award. Your nomination will help us honor those who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, innovation, and leadership in advancing music education in Indiana. Please submit your nomination by completing our Google Form. Let’s celebrate the remarkable achievements of our community and acknowledge the inspiring work of those who shape the future of Orff Schulwerk!