Music For All has recognized an initiative led by a Slippery Rock University faculty member that aligns with SRU’s commitment to nurturing students and communities through engaging and inclusive programming.
SRU’s Early Childhood and Elementary Music Community Engagement Initiative, under the leadership of Cassandra Eisenreich, associate professor of music, has been named a 2026 Advocacy in Action Award Recipient in the category of Community Involvement by Music for All, one of the nation’s largest and most influential music education organizations.
Since 2014, this unique initiative connects SRU music education students with schoolchildren and young learners throughout the community through early access to “inclusive, high-impact musical experiences.” The initiative has forged connections with programs such as Early Learning Connections, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and the SRU/SGA Preschool.
With Eisenreich’s guidance as director and lead facilitator, SRU music education students serve as teaching artists and assistants and collaborate with the program partners to provide free, quality musical experiences to the young students that benefit from the initiative’s offerings. According to Music for All, “the initiative transcends traditional boundaries to build vibrant, inclusive community where music is accessible, valued, and a vital part of growth — demonstrating effective advocacy in action.”
More information about the Early Childhood and Elementary Music Community Engagement Initiative is available on the Music Department webpage and the Music For All website. More information about the Advocacy in Action Community Involvement Award is also available on the Music For All website.