Executive Board Candidates

Watch Candidate Endorsement Video Here

Name: Carter Biggers 

Candidate for: TMEA President-Elect 

Present Position: Director of Bands, Associate Professor – Texas Woman’s University (2016-Present) 

Previous Position(s): Assistant Director of Athletic Bands – Penn State University (2013-2016); Elementary Band Director – Iowa City Community School District (2012-2013); Graduate Fellow – University of Iowa (2009-2012); Director of Bands – Seagraves ISD (2006-2009); Director of Bands – East Bernard ISD (2004-2006); Director of Bands – Irons JHS, Lubbock ISD (2003-2004); Graduate Assistant – Texas Tech University (2001-2003); Assistant Director of Bands & Percussion– Abilene Cooper HS (2000-2001) 

Education: Doctor of Musical Arts – University of Iowa (2013); Master of Music – Texas Tech University (2003); Bachelor of Music Education – Texas Tech University (2000) 

TMEA Offices and Positions Held: College Division Vice-President (2024-Present); College Division Session Review Chair (2022-2024); Region 2 College Chair (2019-Present); College Division Volunteer (2016-Present); Region 13 ATSSB Percussion Coordinator (2005-2006) 

Other Offices and Positions Held: President, Pi Kappa Lambda – Kappa Omicron (2020-Present); Braswell HS Band Boosters Events Coordinator (2020-2023); UIL Region 2 Marching Contest Coordinator (2019-2022); Vice-President, Pi Kappa Lambda – Zeta Iota (2015-2016); Goin’ Band Association Board of Directors (2006-2009, 2023-present) 

Professional Affiliations: TMEA, TBA, TMAA, CBDNA 

Honors/Accomplishments: TWU Wind Symphony – Invited Ensemble, Percy Grainger Festival (March 2026); TWU Outstanding Service to the Division of Student Life (2025); TWU Wind Symphony – Invited Ensemble, CBDNA Divisional Conference (2024, 2020); TWU College of Arts & Sciences Distinction in Scholarship (2023); TWU Mary Mason Lyon Award for Distinguished Faculty (2023); TWU Wind Symphony, “Walking on Shattered Glass” Recorded Album (2023); Dr. Ann G. Uhlir Endowed Fellowship in Higher Ed Administration (2021); TWU Wind Symphony – Invited Ensemble, NACWPI Conference (2021); Runner-Up Class 1A TMEA Honor Band, Seagraves HS (2007); Eagle Scout (1995) 

Personal Information: 

My wife, Mandy, and I have been happily married for 25 years. She is currently on the Biology faculty at TWU, and in her spare time serves as a Flight Attendant for Southwest Airlines. Our proudest accomplishments are our three children – Palmer and Harrison who are currently Junior Music Education majors at Texas Tech University (4th-generation Red Raiders) and both aspire to be public school band directors; and Dakota who is in the 10th grade at Braswell High School enjoying the busy life of balancing band and tennis! 

Statement: 

My story is a Texas story. From kindergarten through high school, I sat in Texas music classrooms. I earned two degrees at a Texas university, taught in Texas public schools, and today, as your College Division Vice-President, I work daily with future music educators. 

Music education in Texas didn’t just shape my career, it shaped who I am. I’ve witnessed its transformative power from every angle: as a student discovering my passion, as a teacher watching young people find their voice, and now as a leader preparing the next generation of educators. Texas music education is a cultural and educational force that has formed the identity of countless individuals. It’s a storied legacy we must preserve while boldly moving forward. 

These past two years as Vice-President have been profoundly rewarding. I’ve seen our organization provide world-class professional development, build community, and advocate tirelessly for music education. But I’ve also gained clarity about the work ahead. Our teachers face increasing demands. Recruitment and retention require innovative solutions. We must ensure every Texas student has access to transformative music education, regardless of zip code or circumstance. This is why I’m running. 

If elected, my vision includes three commitments: 

First, amplifying ALL voices within our community, ensuring every student and educator feels valued and represented through belonging, innovation, and advocacy. 

Second, strengthening support for educators at every career stage, embracing technological advancements and evolving pedagogies while honoring our exceptional traditions. 

Third, championing policies recognizing music education’s integral role in comprehensive student development, building seamless pathways from elementary through college. 

My Texas roots fuel my passion. My classroom experience grounds me. My work with future teachers gives me hope. My service as Vice-President has prepared me to lead TMEA into a dynamic future by preserving our rich traditions while propelling them forward. TMEA has given me so much. Now I’m asking to give back by serving you at the highest level.

Watch Candidate Endorsement Video Here

Name: Joshua McGuire  

Candidate for: TMEA President-Elect 

Present Position: Head Choir Director, Rock Hill High School, Prosper ISD (2020-present). 

Previous Position: Head Choir Director, Sachse High School, Garland ISD (2005-2020); Head Choir Director, Reed-Custer High School, Braidwood, Illinois (2000-2003). 

Education: Bachelor of Music (Education), Western Illinois University (2000); Master of Music (Choral Conducting), Louisiana State University (2005). 

TMEA Offices and Positions Held: TMEA Vice-President and Vocal Division Chair (2023-2025), Area B Vocal Chair (2021-2023); Convention Ballroom Manager (2023); Vocal Division Convention and Clinic Coordinator (2020-2021); State Board Election Chair (2019); All-State Tenor Bass Choir Organizer (2016-2017); Small School Choir Committee (2016-2017); Area C Vocal Chair (2014-2018); All-State Mixed Choir Section Leader (2014); Region 3 Vocal Chair (2010-2011); All-State Tenor Bass Choir Section Leader (2007) 

Other Offices and Positions Held: TMEA IDEA Committee, TCDA Ways and Means Committee, National ACDA Conference Invited Choir Liaison, SWACDA Choir Coordinator 

Professional Affiliations: TMEA, TCDA, TMAA, TFAA, ACDA 

Honors/Accomplishments: Prosper ISD Star Polisher (2025); NAfME National Convention Demonstration Choir and Presenter (2016); City of Sachse Secondary Teacher of the Year (2011); Sachse High School Teacher of the Year (2010); American Classic Madrigal Festival Performance of Distinction (San Antonio 2012, 2014; Dallas 2020, 2022, 2024), Frequent MS/JH and HS Region Choir Clinician/Conductor 

Statement:

 It is with respect for the responsibility of this position and humility for the opportunity that I accept the nomination for TMEA President-Elect. Having recently completed my two-year term as Vocal Division Vice-President and currently teaching and mentoring high school choral musicians in the midst of my 25th year of teaching, I bring a clear view of how the TMEA Executive Board and staff support educators, and how these efforts impact communities across Texas. 

Connection is what TMEA is all about. Reflecting on the challenges at hand as K-12 education and teacher education programs in Texas continue to change, my ongoing work as a classroom teacher and my service within TMEA have challenged and equipped me to serve effectively on the executive board. 

Connection to the Profession: My daily interaction with 6-12 grade students allows me to see firsthand how decisions made by local and state elected officials affect their success and the work of fine arts teams within my school district. These experiences shape my understanding of the current state of music education in our state, and keep me engaged in ongoing conversations with colleagues about best practices that impact and benefit all fine arts students. 

Connection Through Service: It has been an honor to serve my colleagues and their students through the Region, Area and State level opportunities available. Through this service, I’ve built a special skill set that directly supports TMEA’s mission. Each decision made by the Executive Board influences the experiences of our K-12 fine arts students and their teachers. It is equally meaningful to help create opportunities for others to experience the fulfillment of serving through TMEA’s many avenues of service. 

Connection to the Future: A highlight during my Board service has been strengthening TMEA systems, visibility, and community impact. I participated in the selection of a firm to conduct a market research study providing data through engaging focus groups representing Texas’ diverse demographics. As President-Elect, I look forward to impactful conversations that focus on increasing participation in music education using the data collected. This data will allow TMEA to serve more students and families through thoughtful innovation beyond the traditional models of the past century and continue to advocate for all teachers. 

For two and a half decades in the classroom and ongoing service to my colleagues, I’m deeply connected to the many realities that affect TMEA’s basic mission: to provide the best quality music education for all students in Texas. I’m equipped to guide TMEA’s charge as a leading voice in fine arts education within the state of Texas and as a national model for state music education associations. The work of the TMEA staff and Executive Board today will shape the experiences of students and educators as we enter the next chapter of K-12 education in the state. I am committed to sustaining our momentum and advancing the progress needed to strengthen fine arts programs throughout the state.

Watch Candidate Endorsement Video Here

Name: Andy Easton 

Candidate for: TMEA Band Division Vice-President

Present Position: Director of Bands, Tomball Memorial HS, Tomball ISD (2011-present) 

Previous Positions: Assistant Band Director, Tomball HS, (2005-2011); Assistant Band Director, Waller ISD (1998-2005) 

Education: Master of Education in Administration, Lamar University (2023); Bachelor of Music, Texas Tech University (1998) 

TMEA Offices and Positions Held: Region 9 Jazz Coordinator (2008-2010); Region 9 Band Chair (2020-present); Area F Band Chair (2022-present), Area F&G Honor Band Listening Chair (2022-present); TMEA Public Relations Committee (2023-2024); TMEA Honor Band Committee (2024-2025); Co-Author of an article published in the Southwestern Musician (September 2024); TMEA Clinician (2017, 2023, 2024); TMEA Clinic Presider (2022, 2023, 2025); TMEA Convention Volunteer (2020-2025); TMEA All-State Seating Panel (2003-2006), TMEA All-State Ensemble Selection Zoom Volunteer (2025) 

Other Offices and Positions Held: Tomball Memorial HS Fine Arts Department Chair (2011-present); TISD Fine Arts Council (2023-present); TISD Music Curriculum Committee (2017-2018);  

Professional Affiliations: TMEA, TBA, TMAA, TJEA, and Phi Beta Mu 

Honors/Accomplishments: Tomball Memorial HS A+ Teacher of the Year (2013, 2017), Tomball ISD Superintendent’s Shining Star Award (2022), TMEA Region Band Clinician, Consistent UIL Sweepstakes Award Winner, TMEA State Honor Band Contest Participant, UIL State Marching Band Contest Participant, Active Clinician / Adjudicator. 

Personal Information:  

I have been married to my wife, Kim, an elementary art teacher whom I met in junior high band, for 30 years. Getting to teach our two daughters and seeing them flourish as young adults, in large part through the experiences they had in band, has been my greatest joy as a band director.  Away from the band hall, I serve as the principal trumpet and substitute conductor of the orchestra and choir at our church. 

Statement:  

I am honored and grateful to accept the nomination for TMEA Band Division Vice-President. In my 27 years of teaching band at a 2C middle school and 3A, 4A, 5A, and 6A high schools, in both rural and suburban areas, I have gained first hand knowledge of the amazing music education happening all across our state.  

I believe that we stand on the shoulders of the giants in our profession who have come before us. Texas bands have a long history of success that has been written and sustained through the leadership of world class music educators. We must honor these great men and women and uphold the established traditions of outstanding performance, close knit community, and above all, first rate music education for ALL students in our state. We must do this while simultaneously leading the charge in innovation and ensuring that TMEA is a place for everyone. Our world is ever changing and we must continue to evolve while remaining true to the guiding principles that have served our organization so well. 

In a time when education seems to be under attack from several directions, so many young teachers are leaving the profession, and high school students who want to pursue music might be afraid to do so, TMEA can continue to be a beacon of hope and a place of great support. We must work with everyone from our State Legislators to our administrators to our fellow teachers to our students and parents to continue to make music education a priority in all of our communities. As we all know, ours is a noble profession. We get to make music, change lives, and witness growth in our students like no other teacher. We have a responsibility to all future band students of Texas to ensure that they have outstanding teachers and have the incredible “Texas band experience” that they deserve. 

I believe in the power of personal connections to foster a collaborative culture, taking initiative and maintaining a growth mindset to challenge the status quo, and that every child deserves to receive first rate music education. I strive every day to embody the phrase servant leader and will work tirelessly to serve the TMEA Band Division through building relationships and casting a compelling vision for the future. TMEA has done so much for me, my children, and my students. I am excited to give back to this amazing organization and ready to serve all the students and directors in Texas as TMEA Band Division Vice-President.

Watch Candidate Endorsement Video Here

Name: Kim Shuttlesworth 

Candidate for: TMEA Band Division Vice-President

Present Position: Director of Bands, Coppell High School 

Previous Position: Director of Bands, Glenn High School- Leander ISD (2016-2021); Director of Bands, James Bowie High School- Austin ISD (2011-2016)  Assistant Director, James Bowie High School- Austin ISD (2007-2011); Assistant Director, Clint Small Middle School- Austin ISD (2006-2007). 

Education: Bachelor of Music Studies, University of Texas at Austin (2006) 

TMEA Offices and Positions Held: Region 18 Band Chair (2016); Region 32 Band Chair (2020-2021); Region 31 Band Vice Chair (2022-2024); Region 31 Band Chair (2024-present); Area B Honor Band Chair (2023-present); Area B All State Audition Chair (2025-present); All-State Etude Committee (2024-2025) 

Other Offices and Positions Held: Bands of America Music Advisory Committee; Board of Directors for NOVA Winter Guard 

Professional Affiliations: TMEA, TBA, Tau Beta Sigma (Alumni), Phi Beta Mu. 

Honors/Accomplishments: James Bowie High School Teacher of the Year (2015); John Philip Sousa Sudler Shield Recipient (2014); The Midwest Clinic Performing Ensemble; TMEA 6A Honor Band Runner-Up (2025)

Statement:  

Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to be an integral part of the Texas Music Education program. Born and raised in Carthage, Texas, I was surrounded by music from a young age. My mother, a dedicated music educator who served in choir and band for thirty years, would frequently bring me to the band hall or choir room as a child. I was constantly immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of student musicians and the enriching activities that define our profession. From military counter marches to full company fronts, my time in East Texas instilled in me a deep sense of discipline, tradition, and excellence in all that I undertake. This belief system has guided me throughout my subsequent educational and professional endeavors, including my time at The University of Texas at Austin, Austin Independent School District, Leander Independent School District, and currently, Coppell Independent School District.   

In considering my candidacy for the position of Band Division Vice-President, I was compelled to reflect on the significant  impact the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) has had in my life. TMEA has provided me with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth as a musician. Additionally, the organization’s educational initiatives, such as the annual convention and mentoring network, have fostered my knowledge and expertise outside the everyday classroom. The strong connections and familial atmosphere of TMEA have cultivated lasting relationships that have enhanced my life for the better. As an organization dedicated to safeguarding music education in Texas, TMEA instills in me a sense of hope and purpose for the future of music education.   

During my tenure on the All-State Committee and other committees, such as the Honor Band Committee, we have consistently evaluated processes, shared constructive feedback to streamline contests, and collaborated to create equitable and high-quality experiences for all students. If elected, I will maintain the collaboration of music educators across the state in monitoring and adjusting policies to enhance the student experience. I will also work closely with the board to continue advocating for the importance of music education in schools, given the uncertainty surrounding education at the legislative level. 

Music education is of paramount importance in the development of future leaders. As educators, we must continue to uphold the mission of the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA): to advance music education by providing professional development opportunities for educators, fostering public support for music programs in schools, offering high-quality musical experiences for students, and cultivating a lifelong appreciation for music. As your Band Division Vice President, I would be committed to ensuring that our core values and mission are upheld, serving the needs of the state, and collaborating with other educators across the state to prioritize the student experience with music education in decision-making processes.

Watch Candidate Endorsement Video Here

Name: Jerry Whorton

Candidate for: TMEA Band Division Vice-President

Present Position: Director of Fine Arts, Melissa ISD (2024–present); Director of Bands, Melissa High School, Melissa ISD (2016–2024)

Previous Positions: Director of Bands / Director of Fine Arts, Winona ISD (2008–2016), Director of Bands, Cooper ISD (2007–2008), Assistant Band Director, Carlisle ISD (2006–2007)

Education: Bachelor of Music Education, Northwestern State University; Master of Educational Leadership, Northwestern State University (in progress)

TMEA Offices and Positions Held: Though not TMEA, ATSSB 4A State Division Chair; ATSSB Executive Board; ATSSB State Board of Directors; SARC Committee Member; UIL Region Site Coordinator; clinician and presenter for TBA and TMEA

Other Offices and Positions Held: ATSSB 2021 All-State Band Clinic/Concert Host and Organizer; UIL 5A Region/Area Marching Contest Site Host

Professional Affiliations: TMEA, ATSSB, PBM, TBA, TMAA, TASA, TAEA, Four States Bandmasters Association

Honors and Accomplishments: Every ensemble I have taken to UIL Marching Contest and CSR has earned first divisions. UIL State Marching Contest finalist and medalist (bronze and silver), TMEA Honor Band Finalist ensembles, Outstanding Performance Series recognitions at the region, area, and state levels, Numerous All-State student achievements through both TMEA and ATSSB, Leadership in fine arts growth and systems development in one of Texas’s fastest-growing districts

Personal Information:

My family is the heart of my story. My wife, Alex, and I have been married for 10 years, and together we are raising two beautiful daughters and my son, a sixth-grade trombonist. Our blended family embodies love, growth, and grace. The humility and grounding they provide remind me daily that leadership is not about authority; it is about service, empathy, and accountability. I am grateful for the opportunities God has placed in my path and for the people who have shaped me both personally and professionally.

Statement:

I am a proud product of Texas band culture, having grown up in Region 21, where ATSSB and TMEA shaped my early experiences and where my parents, both music educators, instilled the values that guide me today. As one of four siblings all pursuing the same profession, music education was intertwined with our family life. From a young age, I learned that band programs do more than teach music. They build character, foster a sense of belonging, and shape young people in meaningful ways.

In Melissa, I learned to lead through authentic growth. I watched our community expand from fewer than 6,000 residents to over 25,000 and saw firsthand how to honor tradition while developing systems that support a modern, thriving program. That experience taught me that strong roots and a future-focused vision must work hand in hand. TMEA now faces a similar moment of transformation. Texas is evolving, and the needs of our students and directors are changing with it. Our organization has the opportunity to lead with clarity and unity while staying grounded in the foundation that built our success.

I have also observed well-meaning decisions that unintentionally limit student opportunities, and safeguarding those opportunities must remain a priority. Our membership is diverse but united by a common purpose. Every director, regardless of the size or setting of their program, deserves to be represented, supported, and heard.

Through my work with ATSSB, UIL, and statewide conventions, I have developed a deep understanding of the pressures that directors face. I believe in collaborative, solutions-focused leadership, transparent communication, and decision-making that emphasizes long-term outcomes over short-term convenience. I also believe TMEA can preserve the traditions that define Texas music education while embracing intentional growth that reflects the needs of today’s students.

If elected, it would be an honor to uphold the traditions and values TMEA has established, to help continue providing the world’s greatest annual convention and All-State band experience, and to ensure that student opportunities always come first. I will advocate for equitable access, stronger staffing and facility standards, protected instructional time, and transparent, consistent processes that reflect the realities of all Texas band programs. Student-centered decision making will guide every discussion because students are the reason our profession exists.

It would be an honor to serve Texas music educators in this role and help guide TMEA into its next chapter.

Watch Candidate Endorsement Video Here

Name: Crystal Gerrard-Ramirez 

Candidate for: TMEA College Division Vice-President

Present Position: Assistant Professor of Music Education, University of North Texas (2018–present) 

Previous Position: Graduate Teaching Associate, The Ohio State University (2015–2018); Director of Bands, Jackson Middle School, Grand Prairie ISD (2014–2015); Director of Bands, Young Women’s Leadership Academy at Arnold, Grand Prairie ISD (2013–2014); Assistant Band Director, DeLay Middle School, Lewisville ISD (2010–2013) 

Education: Bachelor of Music in Music Education, The University of Texas at Arlington (2010); Master of Music in Music Education, Southern Methodist University (2015); Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education, The Ohio State University (2018) 

TMEA Offices and Positions Held: Region 2 College Chair (2024–present), Chair of the College Division Committee on IDEA (2023–present), Chair of the Article Review Committee (2025–Present), Presidential Committee for IDEA (2023–present) 

Other Offices and Positions Held: Member-at-Large for the National Association for Music Education-Texas Chapter (2021–2023); Editorial Board for Contributions to Music Education (2024–present); Advisory Committee for Music Educators Journal (2024–present) 

Professional Affiliations: TMEA, National Association for Music Education (NAfME), NAfME-Texas, International Society for Music Education (ISME), WBDI (Women Band Directors International) 

Honors/Accomplishments: Phi Kappa Lambda Honor Society (2018), The Ohio State University Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award (2018), Virginia A. Bridges Music Education Award (2017), Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society (2016), The Joseph A. Leeder Memorial Scholarship (2016), Texas Music Educators Association McNallen Scholarship (2013), Lewisville Independent School District Carolyn Vines Memorial Fellowship (2013) 

Statement:  

I am a product of Texas music education. Participating in school music programs from elementary through college provided me with safe, supportive spaces where I felt a sense of belonging. Through these experiences, I realized the power of music education in creating environments where all students can feel seen and valued. Music education, educators, and students have profoundly influenced my life, inspiring me to help shape the field by working with preservice and in-service music educators at the college level.  

From my formative years through middle school band directing and now as a teacher educator, TMEA has significantly influenced my growth as a musician and educator. I have gained valuable knowledge and inspiration through the organization’s clinics, performances, meetings, resources, and networks. Because of this, I have been dedicated to giving back by serving the organization and contributing to its mission. Currently, I serve the College Division as a region chair, chair of two committees, and as a representative on the Presidential Committee for IDEA.  

I seek election as TMEA College Division Vice-President to serve the organization and its members more broadly and to help address critical matters in our field. At the college level, these include music teacher recruitment and retention; representation; preservice teacher education; relevance; innovation; and ensuring access to high-quality, inclusive, and responsive music experiences, among others.  

As TMEA College Division Vice-President, I can offer valuable insights for the position. I am a first-generation high school and college graduate, the daughter of a Filipina immigrant, and have been both a student and teacher in Title I schools and underserved communities. Additionally, I am committed to researching issues of underrepresentation and marginalization to help answer critical questions in music education. These experiences have shaped my views on service and leadership.   

Beyond my personal background and perspectives, I strive to include the voices and experiences of our organization’s diverse membership. Texas has numerous institutions and programs spread across different locations, each with unique strengths and needs. To effectively serve these entities, I aim to listen to and collaborate with members to provide meaningful support and drive progress. Our collective voices and ideas can help shape a promising path forward.  

Moving ahead, my vision for TMEA is to continue supporting all students, teachers, and programs. Providing high-quality music education for everyone is possible if we not only recognize the barriers that exist but also work to remove them.  

In closing, I am committed to serving the organization and its members, and to striving for meaningful progress for everyone in our communities.  

I appreciate your consideration.