How can I possibly thank all of the people who made the 2025 MTNA Performance Competition such a success?
To begin, our deepest gratitude goes to the wonderful faculty at Central Washington University — Jeff Snedeker, Carrie Rehkopf Michel, Yerin Kim, and Jon Michel — for their sponsorship and support. We also thank the dedicated CWU staff — Allen Larsen, Anne Smethurst, Phoebe Blaisdell, and all of the student building managers — who worked tirelessly to ensure that everything ran smoothly.
Behind the scenes, several people deserve special recognition for their extraordinary efforts. Jason Kuo was an incredible resource, finding time to proof and print programs, organize volunteers, and fill in wherever there was a need. Kathy Mortensen also spent countless hours offering invaluable advice and helping to ensure that wise decisions were made. Our Division Coordinators — Mary Kaye Owen, Kim Bowman, and Laura Curtis — did a fabulous job communicating with students and making sure that every contestant felt welcomed and supported.
At the event itself, many individuals stepped forward to volunteer their time and energy. Our wonderful Board of Directors — Kira Miller, Jason Kuo, Amanda Harris, Kathy Mortensen, Colleen Hunter, and Karen Hollenback — could be found helping wherever needed. In addition, we were supported by a fantastic group of volunteers who timed performances, monitored doors, staffed the registration desk, and helped with setup and cleanup: Jenny Rydberg, Patti Robertson, Sam Hunter, Marina Munter, Marilyn Wilbanks, Jeff Snedeker, and Whitney Reck. Thanks to their excellent work, the competition ran smoothly and on schedule — and I know that the performers’ stress levels were eased by their kindness and efficiency.
Our judges also deserve heartfelt thanks. They worked long hours and dedicated their very best efforts to providing thoughtful feedback and a meaningful learning experience for every student. Each one made significant sacrifices to be part of this event, and I hope everyone will take time to thank them for their contributions to WSMTA.
And how can we possibly thank Carol Cross and Mary Grant for the tremendous support they offered to our judges and volunteers? The food they provided was exquisite and plentiful — but more than that, their positive energy, warmth, and smiles nourished us all and made the event feel like a true family gathering.
I am so proud to be a member of WSMTA, and deeply grateful to all the teachers, students, and volunteers whose work made this event such a success. Great things await at the Division level — the competition goes on!
Finally, congratulations to all our student winners below!
