Dr. Jordan VanHemert recognized as Jazz Educator of the Year

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) is proud to announce that Dr. Jordan VanHemert, assistant professor of music, has received the Collegiate Jazz Educator of the Year award from the Oklahoma Jazz Educators Association (OKJE).

This annual honor is presented to one outstanding collegiate director and one outstanding high school director in recognition of their contributions to the jazz community. For VanHemert, the award highlights his commitment to creating transformative opportunities for students and building meaningful community partnerships, with his work at NSU serving as the foundation for these efforts.

“I am honored by the recognition that we are building something meaningful,” VanHemert said. “Jazz has a rich legacy at NSU.”

A prolific jazz saxophonist and composer with five internationally acclaimed albums, VanHemert brings the perspective of a global practitioner to the classroom. These real-world experiences allow him to mentor students with an authentic understanding of what it takes to be a successful modern musician.

“I always say ‘serve the music,’ which means serving people. Jazz culture is all about mentorship,” VanHemert said. “Mentorship thrives on the individual attention that we are able to provide at NSU. I teach my students about the importance of finding your own voice, and my students learn from someone who is actively touring and performing in today’s musical landscape all around the world.”

T.J. Smith, the 2025 OKJE High School Jazz Director of the Year from Claremore Public Schools, nominated VanHemert for the award, remarking on his role in advancing jazz culture.

“I nominated Dr. VanHemert because of all the great things he’s done for my students and the students of others,” Smith said. “He’s built a great relationship with OKJE, constantly hosts our Fall Workshops, performs with our bands, and has taught numerous lessons and seminars to our students for free. I am proud to recommend VanHemert for this award and to encourage my own students to study with him!”

NSU President Rodney Hanley, noted VanHemert’s impact extends across the university and into the broader community.

“This honor for Dr. VanHemert highlights his role as a driving force in jazz and jazz education,” Hanley said. “The passion he invests in his craft is evident not only in the high regard of his peers but also in the artistic growth and success of the students he inspires.”

As Director for the Jazz Studies and Commercial Music program, VanHemert has overseen the expansion of the music curriculum, including the recent addition of two new minors, Jazz and Music Production, as well as a new certificate program for Digital Audio Engineering.

To explore the Jazz Program and learn more about music opportunities, visit nsuok.edu/music. 

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