Excellence for decades

I found myself reflecting this week after seeing a post about my high school band director, Mr., now Professor and Dr., Tim Yontz, who recently retired after more than 40 years as a conductor, teacher, and professor, most recently at Florida Gulf Coast University.

Band at Marinette High School was more than just an activity for me, it was a source of real joy during those years for my entire family, and it quietly set a path that led all the way to the University of Wisconsin Marching Band. At the time, we knew Mr. Yontz was exceptional. You could feel it in the way taught us, the standards he held, and the results we achieved together. Whether it was competitions in Tennessee or anywhere else we performed, we showed up ready and it showed. We consistently performed at a high level, and some of us were honored with selections to Wisconsin Honors Band and All-State.

One thing I only recently connected the coincidence that both Mr. Yontz and my director at Wisconsin, Mike Leckrone, attended Butler University. Thank you Butler University for helping to develop two amazing music educators!!!

What stands out most, though, is the lesson: great leaders create belief and back it up with high standards and consistent expectations. Mr. Yontz didn’t just teach music, he showed us what it looks like to prepare, to take pride in your work, and to perform when it matters.

I’m incredibly grateful for his influence. It’s the kind of impact that lasts far beyond high school and the kind I aspire to create in my own field.

Thank you, Dr. Yontz! Wishing you a well-earned and meaningful retirement! (PS - you look like you haven’t aged a bit in the 30 years since I was in your band!)

Learn In The Flow Of Life

Jason