LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Elizabeth Bahr was nominated by a colleague, Ann Berns.

"I enthusiastically support Liz as a LifeChanger. Having worked alongside Liz for two years, I can confidently attest to their exceptional talents, dedication, and commitment to music education," said Berns.

"During our time together, Liz consistently displayed an unparalleled passion for music and teaching. Her ability to inspire and cultivate a love for music in students was remarkable. Whether instructing beginners or coaching advanced ensembles, she maintained a perfect balance of encouragement, discipline, and creativity, fostering an environment where students thrived musically and personally," said Berns.

"Liz possesses an impressive breadth of knowledge across various musical genres and instruments, allowing her students to learn as she tailors lessons that cater to students' diverse interests and skill levels. She also demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, organizing and conducting performances that showcased the students' talents while instilling a sense of pride and accomplishment within the band," said Berns.

"Furthermore, Liz is a team player who collaborates effectively with colleagues, parents, and administrators. An electrical fire recently damaged the rooms in the nearby hall, including the band room. She was forced to give lessons on the stage in the gym. It is not easy doing lessons when kids are playing basketball on the other side of the curtain. She managed to do this with good grace," said Berns.

"In conclusion, Liz is an exemplary candidate for this award. She possesses the necessary skills, passion, and dedication to educate students in music and inspire and empower them to reach their fullest potential. Ask anyone in the community who has attended her students' band concerts, and they would all say she is a gem in rural Iowa," said Berns.