Winfield-Mt. Union supports music programs

The Iowa Bandmasters Association (IBA) announced Winfield-Mt. Union school principal David Edwards as the 2022 Outstanding Administrator Award for the secondary school level.

The Iowa Bandmasters Association chooses three administrators through nominations of band directors.

“One administrator is selected at the middle school, high school, and superintendent levels. The nominations are submitted to and selected by the IBA Public Relations Committee,” a news release from Winfield-Mt. Union schools stated.

According to the IBA website, “these administrators [who have been selected] have shown support of their instrumental music programs through hours of their time, dollars in the budget, and adding staff or programs to promote excellence in instrumental music education.”

Edwards has been the principal Winfield-Mt. Union since 2007.

Lindsey Pogmore, the band director who prioritizes music accessibility, nominated Edwards.

“I have seen firsthand how he takes pride in programs by supporting them. Pride may look like attending performances, helping tear down equipment, after concerts, or in offering the same type of enthusiastic send-offs for music events that the sports events receive when they have made a milestone accomplishment. … he genuinely cares about WMU students and their musical experiences,” Pogmore wrote in her nomination.

“I have witnessed first hand his genuine support of band students and the program,” Winfield resident Barb Chaney wrote in congratulations for the award, “A very deserving honor.”

Edwards will be presented with the 2022 Outstanding Administrator Award during the Iowa Bandmasters Awards Banquet May 13 in Des Moines.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com