Theresa Guidry was chosen as this year's President Honors recipient because she personifies a successful NOCCA Jazz student. Theresa has taken what the individual faculty members and the curriculum has had to offer and she has incorporated these elements into her own individual voice and style.

When we met the summer before she entered NOCCA, it was obvious that Theresa was a talented, intelligent, and motivated young lady with a plan and she has steadily grown as an artist since she began with us.

Theresa was challenged with a very serious health issue this school year and we all marveled how quickly upon her return she regained her high level of playing and then went beyond.

It has truly been a pleasure for the faculty and myself to witness Theresa’s artistic growth at NOCCA. We look forward to her university and professional career and have no doubt that she can make a positive impact.

Michael Pellera