"As a former band director who gets to guest conduct bands and do clinics, I get to see firsthand the quality of music education in the state of Tennessee. I get to observe the financial struggles many programs face during these economic times and it is nice to work with such a great company that keeps the passion of music education as one of their top priorities."

Rick was nominated by teachers throughout the state, then confirmed and approved by a committee of past Tennessee Music Educators Association (TMEA) presidents. Ron Roberts, past President of the TMEA, says:

"I don’t recall getting so many positive responses after announcing the winner for the choice we made in choosing Rick DeJonge for this year's recipient."

This is the second time Rick has won such an award. In 2011 while living in Texas, Rick received the 'Industry Person of the Year' awarded to him by the Texas Bandmasters Association.

KHS America is the manufacturer and distributor of Mapex drums and Majestic concert percussion, and Jupiter instruments, among others.