In celebration of its 100th anniversary, the University of Miami has honored alumna Kelly Parkes—department chair and associate professor of music education in the CU Boulder College of Music—with the prestigious Centennial Medal, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to music education, teacher development and music education teacher preparation policy.
Parkes earned a doctorate in music education at University of Miami in 2006 and has become one of the most respected voices in music educator preparation and assessment in the United States. Her research has shaped national standards for music teaching effectiveness, influencing how thousands of music educators are educated and supported across the country.
„The Frost Centennial Medals were created to recognize alumni whose careers represent the highest ideals of the Frost School of Music and the University of Miami on the occasion of our 100th year. These medals were reserved for those whose professional contributions have meaningfully shaped their fields over a sustained period. In music education, we wanted to honor individuals whose leadership, scholarship and service have impacted the field nationally and internationally. Dr. Kelly Parkes is unquestionably among this distinguished group. Her sustained and influential scholarship in music assessment and teacher education has helped shape how we understand and advance music teaching and learning” said Carlos Abril, professor of music education and associate dean for research at the Frost School of Music in May 2025.
“Her service to the profession on numerous editorial and special interest committees has been equally impactful. Moreover, her work as a professor at leading music education programs in higher education has inspired and prepared the next generation of scholars and educators. Dr. Parkes fully embodies the spirit of the Frost Centennial Medal, and she is a most deserving recipient of this prestigious honor.”
A native of Australia, Parkes began her career as a professional orchestral musician, a band director and music teacher before earning her doctorate in music education. Her scholarship focuses on music teacher evaluation, assessment of musical learning and music teaching, and the intersections between K-12 classrooms and higher education in the preparation of teachers. In addition to her academic roles, she has advised the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and serves on several advisory committees within the association.
Parkes reflected on her journey from aspiring educator to national thought leader:
“My time at the University of Miami laid the foundation for everything I’ve been privileged to do,” said Parkes. “It was there that I learned the power of music education, not just as an elective subject in schools but as a transformative experience for all humans across their lifespan. I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the institution that shaped my path.”
As the University of Miami looks toward its second century, the Centennial Medal stands as a symbol of its enduring commitment to cultivating leaders who inspire, uplift and make a meaningful impact on the world. Parkes joins a distinguished group of honorees whose legacies reflect the university’s mission to foster creativity, excellence and service.
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College of Music professor wins centennial medal – University of Colorado Boulder
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