Tami Bonnett (President)
Musical Talent: Voice-Soprano
Birthday: December 8
Education: BA in Spanish & International Studies, University of Iowa (2008)
SAI Anniversary: 2006
Tami is originally from northeast Iowa and received her degree at the University of Iowa. She is currently employed as Development Director for Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity in Iowa City. Tami resides in West Liberty with her husband, Ed. They have two daughters, Penelope and Olivia, a son, Ross, and a cat, Zeus.
Musical Talent: Voice-Soprano
Birthday: December 8
Education: BA in Spanish & International Studies, University of Iowa (2008)
SAI Anniversary: 2006
Tami is originally from northeast Iowa and received her degree at the University of Iowa. She is currently employed as Development Director for Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity in Iowa City. Tami resides in West Liberty with her husband, Ed. They have two daughters, Penelope and Olivia, a son, Ross, and a cat, Zeus.
Carole Thomas (Vice President - Membership/Program Director)
Musical talent: Piano
Birthday: May 7
Education: Northern Illinois University; The University of Illinois
SAI Awards: Rose of Constancy, Rose of Dedication, Rose of Honor, Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1961
Carole Thomas holds degrees from Northern Illinois University and the University of Illinois. Her piano studies have been with Dr. William Race, Dr. Robert Floyd, composer-pianist Anis Fuleihan, Howard Karp, and renowned piano pedagogue Dr. James Lyke. Following three years as an instructor at the University of Illinois, Carole joined the University of Iowa faculty in 1970. At the university, she taught group piano, applied piano and piano pedagogy, and served for eight years as piano area head. Although Carole retired early from the University of Iowa in 2002, she continues to be active by accepting invitations to give presentations, to teach master classes, to adjudicate, and to perform. She is a Permanent Professional Certified Teacher of Music in Piano (NCTM) of MTNA and a member of the National Federation of Music Clubs. Carole continues to teach privately in her home studio. In 2010 she received the Sigma Alpha Iota award of the Rose of Constancy. She was previously awarded the Sword of Honor and the Rose of Dedication. In 1972 she was awarded the Rose of Honor for being instrumental in establishing the University of Iowa undergraduate chapter, Zeta Epsilon. She is also a founding member of the Iowa City Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota. Carole is married to Dennis Thomas. They have one married daughter and two beautiful grandchildren.
Musical talent: Piano
Birthday: May 7
Education: Northern Illinois University; The University of Illinois
SAI Awards: Rose of Constancy, Rose of Dedication, Rose of Honor, Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1961
Carole Thomas holds degrees from Northern Illinois University and the University of Illinois. Her piano studies have been with Dr. William Race, Dr. Robert Floyd, composer-pianist Anis Fuleihan, Howard Karp, and renowned piano pedagogue Dr. James Lyke. Following three years as an instructor at the University of Illinois, Carole joined the University of Iowa faculty in 1970. At the university, she taught group piano, applied piano and piano pedagogy, and served for eight years as piano area head. Although Carole retired early from the University of Iowa in 2002, she continues to be active by accepting invitations to give presentations, to teach master classes, to adjudicate, and to perform. She is a Permanent Professional Certified Teacher of Music in Piano (NCTM) of MTNA and a member of the National Federation of Music Clubs. Carole continues to teach privately in her home studio. In 2010 she received the Sigma Alpha Iota award of the Rose of Constancy. She was previously awarded the Sword of Honor and the Rose of Dedication. In 1972 she was awarded the Rose of Honor for being instrumental in establishing the University of Iowa undergraduate chapter, Zeta Epsilon. She is also a founding member of the Iowa City Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota. Carole is married to Dennis Thomas. They have one married daughter and two beautiful grandchildren.
Amy Copping (Vice President - Ritual)
Musical talent: Clarinet
Birthday: Nov. 12
Education: University of Iowa, BM; UNCG, MM
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2001
Amy is an Iowa City native and obtained her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Iowa, where she affiliated with the Zeta Epsilon chapter. She then moved to Greensboro, NC and obtained her Master of Music degree before moving back to the Iowa City area and affiliating with the Iowa City Alumnae Chapter. She later moved to Cincinnati, OH where she filled in as Province Officer for one year, then affiliated with the Cincinnati Alumnae chapter. In 2020, just a week before the COVID-19 pandemic put the world in lockdown, Amy moved back to Iowa City with her husband and their 2 boys, then 6 and 4. She currently works for P&G as an Initiative Operations Leader and Planner for Oral B. Her hobbies include gardening, DIY projects, helping with her sons' Cub Scouts, and consuming enough coffee (or wine?) to keep up with a household of 2 energetic boys and 2 mini Aussie puppies.
Musical talent: Clarinet
Birthday: Nov. 12
Education: University of Iowa, BM; UNCG, MM
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2001
Amy is an Iowa City native and obtained her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Iowa, where she affiliated with the Zeta Epsilon chapter. She then moved to Greensboro, NC and obtained her Master of Music degree before moving back to the Iowa City area and affiliating with the Iowa City Alumnae Chapter. She later moved to Cincinnati, OH where she filled in as Province Officer for one year, then affiliated with the Cincinnati Alumnae chapter. In 2020, just a week before the COVID-19 pandemic put the world in lockdown, Amy moved back to Iowa City with her husband and their 2 boys, then 6 and 4. She currently works for P&G as an Initiative Operations Leader and Planner for Oral B. Her hobbies include gardening, DIY projects, helping with her sons' Cub Scouts, and consuming enough coffee (or wine?) to keep up with a household of 2 energetic boys and 2 mini Aussie puppies.
Lin Swanson (Secretary/Yearbook)
Musical talent: Voice and Piano
Birthday: August 12
Education: BA in Spanish & French, University of Redlands, 1993
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1990
Lin has a small home dyeing business and three kids. In her copious free time (ha) she dances with Kahraman Near East Dance Ensemble. Visit her business page here: Color Tonic
Musical talent: Voice and Piano
Birthday: August 12
Education: BA in Spanish & French, University of Redlands, 1993
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1990
Lin has a small home dyeing business and three kids. In her copious free time (ha) she dances with Kahraman Near East Dance Ensemble. Visit her business page here: Color Tonic
Kristen Mead (Treasurer)
Musical talent: Voice, piano, guitar and bass
Birthday: August 20
Education: Bachelor of Music from the University of Iowa in Vocal Performance and Music Education
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1996
Kristen currently works at home as a freelance transcriptionist and closed captioner. This gives her time to be a high school theater and choir mom/volunteer, run her Mom Scouts group to learn new hobbies and skills, enjoy participating in and attending shows at Theatre Cedar Rapids, play piano and sing for fun. She also loves having her son at Iowa to continue the Hawkeye legacy (4th generation)!
The best part of being in our SAI alumnae chapter is years of friendships and support. Her career and family has changed over the last 25 years, but music and sisterhood has always been a constant in her life.
Musical talent: Voice, piano, guitar and bass
Birthday: August 20
Education: Bachelor of Music from the University of Iowa in Vocal Performance and Music Education
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1996
Kristen currently works at home as a freelance transcriptionist and closed captioner. This gives her time to be a high school theater and choir mom/volunteer, run her Mom Scouts group to learn new hobbies and skills, enjoy participating in and attending shows at Theatre Cedar Rapids, play piano and sing for fun. She also loves having her son at Iowa to continue the Hawkeye legacy (4th generation)!
The best part of being in our SAI alumnae chapter is years of friendships and support. Her career and family has changed over the last 25 years, but music and sisterhood has always been a constant in her life.
Ashley Shimmin (Webmaster/Sgt. at Arms/Editor)
Musical talent: Voice- Alto
Birthday: September 1
Education: The University of Iowa: BA Elementary Education, Vocal Music Minor (2009); Drake University: Master's Level Reading Endorsement (2013); Morningside College: Master of Arts in Teaching- English as a Second Language (2019)
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2006
Ashley is currently working as a 3rd grade Dual Language teacher in the West Liberty School District. When she is not teaching, she is usually volunteering her time to one organization or another. On top of her time with SAI and several school committees (including being the district secretary for the West Liberty Education Association), Ashley gives time to Relay for Life of Linn County where she fights cancer by co-captaining "Team Super Bob!" and as part of the Support Team for the Iowa City Moms Collective. Ashley, a Cedar Rapids native, currently lives in a perfectly chaotic house in West Liberty with her husband, Nick, her two children, Amelia and Colin, and their three feisty cats, Ed, Penny, and Stella.
Musical talent: Voice- Alto
Birthday: September 1
Education: The University of Iowa: BA Elementary Education, Vocal Music Minor (2009); Drake University: Master's Level Reading Endorsement (2013); Morningside College: Master of Arts in Teaching- English as a Second Language (2019)
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2006
Ashley is currently working as a 3rd grade Dual Language teacher in the West Liberty School District. When she is not teaching, she is usually volunteering her time to one organization or another. On top of her time with SAI and several school committees (including being the district secretary for the West Liberty Education Association), Ashley gives time to Relay for Life of Linn County where she fights cancer by co-captaining "Team Super Bob!" and as part of the Support Team for the Iowa City Moms Collective. Ashley, a Cedar Rapids native, currently lives in a perfectly chaotic house in West Liberty with her husband, Nick, her two children, Amelia and Colin, and their three feisty cats, Ed, Penny, and Stella.
Holly Kukkonen (Historian)
Musical talent: piano and organ
Birthday: August 19
Education: BS Music Education
SAI Awards: Patroness Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 2010
Holly has been teaching piano since 1981. She is a member of MNTA, the National Federation of Music Clubs, and MusicLink. She was awarded the Teacher of the Year Award for the Lake Superior Music Teachers in 1985, and was awarded the Teacher of the Month Award in June 2014 from MusicLink. Holly served as the organist for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Houghton, MI from 1981 until 1987. She was the organist at Messiah Lutheran Church in Marquette, MI from 1987 until 1995, Holly was the choir director at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Council Bluffs, IA from 1996 until 2006 and also served as the organist from 2004-2006. She spent time as the organist for Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, MN in 2006. Holy lives in Iowa City with her husband, Mark, who she married in 1977. They have three children; Timothy of Omaha, NE, Andrew of Denver, CO, and Lisa of Marshalltown, IA. They have one granddaughter, Eleanor, of Denver, CO.
Musical talent: piano and organ
Birthday: August 19
Education: BS Music Education
SAI Awards: Patroness Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 2010
Holly has been teaching piano since 1981. She is a member of MNTA, the National Federation of Music Clubs, and MusicLink. She was awarded the Teacher of the Year Award for the Lake Superior Music Teachers in 1985, and was awarded the Teacher of the Month Award in June 2014 from MusicLink. Holly served as the organist for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Houghton, MI from 1981 until 1987. She was the organist at Messiah Lutheran Church in Marquette, MI from 1987 until 1995, Holly was the choir director at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Council Bluffs, IA from 1996 until 2006 and also served as the organist from 2004-2006. She spent time as the organist for Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, MN in 2006. Holy lives in Iowa City with her husband, Mark, who she married in 1977. They have three children; Timothy of Omaha, NE, Andrew of Denver, CO, and Lisa of Marshalltown, IA. They have one granddaughter, Eleanor, of Denver, CO.
Tami Byram Mahl
Musical talent: Oboe/English horn (also piano and clarinet)
Birthday: January 11
Education: 2 BA's Drake University, JD USC
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Academic Certificate
SAI Anniversary: 1983
Tami is a Davenport West High graduate. She was initiated into Pi Chapter, SAI (Drake), in 1983, where she graduated with a BA in music (oboe) and a BA in political science. After graduating from the University of Southern California Law School, she clerked for a federal judge in Reno, Nevada, and then began private law practice in Minneapolis, MN, where she affiliated with the Minneapolis-St. Paul Alumnae Chapter. She returned to the Quad Cities in 2001, where she and her husband Dave raised their two daughters, Jennifer (Junior Music Ed Major/Drake SAI) and Katie (high school senior). Tami is a lawyer and currently works with the US Army Corps of Engineers. She also maintains a small oboe studio and regularly performs with several orchestras and ensembles in and around the Quad Cities.
Musical talent: Oboe/English horn (also piano and clarinet)
Birthday: January 11
Education: 2 BA's Drake University, JD USC
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Academic Certificate
SAI Anniversary: 1983
Tami is a Davenport West High graduate. She was initiated into Pi Chapter, SAI (Drake), in 1983, where she graduated with a BA in music (oboe) and a BA in political science. After graduating from the University of Southern California Law School, she clerked for a federal judge in Reno, Nevada, and then began private law practice in Minneapolis, MN, where she affiliated with the Minneapolis-St. Paul Alumnae Chapter. She returned to the Quad Cities in 2001, where she and her husband Dave raised their two daughters, Jennifer (Junior Music Ed Major/Drake SAI) and Katie (high school senior). Tami is a lawyer and currently works with the US Army Corps of Engineers. She also maintains a small oboe studio and regularly performs with several orchestras and ensembles in and around the Quad Cities.
Arianna Edvenson
Musical Talent: Clarinet
Birthday: March 4
Education: University of Northern Iowa - B.M. Clarinet Performance, The University of New Mexico - M.M. Clarinet Performance, University of Iowa - DMA Clarinet Performance and Pedagogy (in progress)
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2014
An Iowa native, Arianna Edvenson is an active performer and teacher who is currently an ABD Doctor of Musical Arts in Clarinet Performance and Pedagogy student at the University of Iowa, where she studies with Jorge Montilla Moreno. Her dissertation, which she will be defending in Spring 2024, focuses on six clarinet sonatas by women from the United States.
Arianna joined the faculty at the University of Northern Iowa for the Spring 2024 semester as an Adjunct Instructor of Clarinet. Additionally, she teaches at Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, at Black Hawk College in Moline, IL, and maintains a private studio of over a dozen middle and high school students. She previously taught weekly in school lessons to over 45 students at Clear Creek Amana Middle School in Tiffin, IA.
As a performer, Arianna was invited to ClarinetFest 2022 in Reno, NV to perform a commissioned piece for clarinet and viola. During the same year, the duo also placed third for The American Prize in Chamber Music Performance in the College/University division for their performance of Prelude, Allegro, and Pastorale by Rebecca Clarke. She has also performed in masterclasses for many well-known clarinetists, including Anthony McGill, Theresa Martin, and Elsa Ludewig-Verdehr.
Arianna received her Master of Music degree in Clarinet Performance from the University of New Mexico as a student of Keith Lemmons. She received her undergraduate degree in Clarinet Performance from the University of Northern Iowa, where she studied with Amanda McCandless. When she’s not teaching or playing clarinet, Arianna enjoys reading, coffee, and cross-stitching.
Musical Talent: Clarinet
Birthday: March 4
Education: University of Northern Iowa - B.M. Clarinet Performance, The University of New Mexico - M.M. Clarinet Performance, University of Iowa - DMA Clarinet Performance and Pedagogy (in progress)
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2014
An Iowa native, Arianna Edvenson is an active performer and teacher who is currently an ABD Doctor of Musical Arts in Clarinet Performance and Pedagogy student at the University of Iowa, where she studies with Jorge Montilla Moreno. Her dissertation, which she will be defending in Spring 2024, focuses on six clarinet sonatas by women from the United States.
Arianna joined the faculty at the University of Northern Iowa for the Spring 2024 semester as an Adjunct Instructor of Clarinet. Additionally, she teaches at Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, at Black Hawk College in Moline, IL, and maintains a private studio of over a dozen middle and high school students. She previously taught weekly in school lessons to over 45 students at Clear Creek Amana Middle School in Tiffin, IA.
As a performer, Arianna was invited to ClarinetFest 2022 in Reno, NV to perform a commissioned piece for clarinet and viola. During the same year, the duo also placed third for The American Prize in Chamber Music Performance in the College/University division for their performance of Prelude, Allegro, and Pastorale by Rebecca Clarke. She has also performed in masterclasses for many well-known clarinetists, including Anthony McGill, Theresa Martin, and Elsa Ludewig-Verdehr.
Arianna received her Master of Music degree in Clarinet Performance from the University of New Mexico as a student of Keith Lemmons. She received her undergraduate degree in Clarinet Performance from the University of Northern Iowa, where she studied with Amanda McCandless. When she’s not teaching or playing clarinet, Arianna enjoys reading, coffee, and cross-stitching.
Kathleen Estrada
Musical Talent: French Horn
Birthday: February 3
Education: Bradley University: BA, Biology; National-Louis University: MAT, Elementary Education; Northern Illinois University: Ed.D.
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Recognition Pin
SAI Anniversary: 1980
Kathleen has worked as a Medical Technologist, nature guide, middle school teacher, teacher professional developer, Associate Professor of Education at Iowa Wesleyan, and now works in the financial industry. Kathleen is a native of Iowa, and after 30+ years in greater Chicago, she is delighted to be back. She was a member of the LaGrange Alumnae for 25 years. She has 2 adult sons.
Musical Talent: French Horn
Birthday: February 3
Education: Bradley University: BA, Biology; National-Louis University: MAT, Elementary Education; Northern Illinois University: Ed.D.
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Recognition Pin
SAI Anniversary: 1980
Kathleen has worked as a Medical Technologist, nature guide, middle school teacher, teacher professional developer, Associate Professor of Education at Iowa Wesleyan, and now works in the financial industry. Kathleen is a native of Iowa, and after 30+ years in greater Chicago, she is delighted to be back. She was a member of the LaGrange Alumnae for 25 years. She has 2 adult sons.
Marissa Hardin
Musical Talent: Trumpet & Voice
Birthday: February 5
Education: BA Biology, Truman State University, 2019; MPH in Health Promotion, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 2023
SAI Anniversary: 2016
Marissa lives in Iowa City with her husband, cat, Darcy, and dog, Brewer. She met her now husband in the music department at Truman State and they continued their educations at UNMC where they were active in the Nebraska Medical Orchestra. She works as an Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health / Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Health Education Fellow. She is passionate about creating learning environments that ensure a sense of belonging and promote healthy behavior. Her time in SAI at Truman State helped her to combine her interests in science and music education into health promotion in educational environments! In her free time, she loves traveling, live music, musical theater, baking, crafting, and caring for her houseplants.
Musical Talent: Trumpet & Voice
Birthday: February 5
Education: BA Biology, Truman State University, 2019; MPH in Health Promotion, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 2023
SAI Anniversary: 2016
Marissa lives in Iowa City with her husband, cat, Darcy, and dog, Brewer. She met her now husband in the music department at Truman State and they continued their educations at UNMC where they were active in the Nebraska Medical Orchestra. She works as an Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health / Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Health Education Fellow. She is passionate about creating learning environments that ensure a sense of belonging and promote healthy behavior. Her time in SAI at Truman State helped her to combine her interests in science and music education into health promotion in educational environments! In her free time, she loves traveling, live music, musical theater, baking, crafting, and caring for her houseplants.
Shalini Jasti
Musical Talent: Saxophone and honking (a specific tenor saxophonist skill developed within the Hawkeye Marching Band)
Education: The University of Iowa, English Education 5- 12, English and Creative Writing (specializing in nonfiction writing and African American literature)
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2019
Shalini was born in India and raised in different parts of the Midwest. She received her degrees from the University of Iowa College of Education. Now working through the Cedar Rapids Community School District as a seventh grade science teacher at McKinley STEAM Academy, Shalini is proud to be working as an educator. Shalini resides in North Liberty, but can often be found walking through local and national hiking trails. When at home, Shalini spends time with her cats, Chaos and Nermal. To coincide with her love of music, Shalini also enjoys writing, reading, and illustrating.
Musical Talent: Saxophone and honking (a specific tenor saxophonist skill developed within the Hawkeye Marching Band)
Education: The University of Iowa, English Education 5- 12, English and Creative Writing (specializing in nonfiction writing and African American literature)
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2019
Shalini was born in India and raised in different parts of the Midwest. She received her degrees from the University of Iowa College of Education. Now working through the Cedar Rapids Community School District as a seventh grade science teacher at McKinley STEAM Academy, Shalini is proud to be working as an educator. Shalini resides in North Liberty, but can often be found walking through local and national hiking trails. When at home, Shalini spends time with her cats, Chaos and Nermal. To coincide with her love of music, Shalini also enjoys writing, reading, and illustrating.
Melissa Karr
Musical Talent: piano, baritone, and trombone
Birthday: April 27
Education: The University of Iowa: BM Piano Performance; The University of Iowa: MA Piano Performance; The University of Iowa: Masters of Nursing in Healthcare Practice
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1976
Melissa was an instrumental music instructor in the Clear Creek and Mount Vernon School Districts for over two decades. She also taught piano and other instruments privately as well as doing extensive accompanying. She has performed with the Eastern Iowa Brass Band (Iowa Brass), DTKK polka band, various quintets and other small groups in the area, as well as conducting several ensembles. She and her husband, Mike, are owners of George's, a tavern in Iowa City's Northside neighborhood which has supported area musicians. Melissa enjoys spending time with her three granddaughters, playing games, quilting, reading, and travelling.
Musical Talent: piano, baritone, and trombone
Birthday: April 27
Education: The University of Iowa: BM Piano Performance; The University of Iowa: MA Piano Performance; The University of Iowa: Masters of Nursing in Healthcare Practice
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1976
Melissa was an instrumental music instructor in the Clear Creek and Mount Vernon School Districts for over two decades. She also taught piano and other instruments privately as well as doing extensive accompanying. She has performed with the Eastern Iowa Brass Band (Iowa Brass), DTKK polka band, various quintets and other small groups in the area, as well as conducting several ensembles. She and her husband, Mike, are owners of George's, a tavern in Iowa City's Northside neighborhood which has supported area musicians. Melissa enjoys spending time with her three granddaughters, playing games, quilting, reading, and travelling.
Laura Kastens
Musical talent: clarinet, voice, and piano
Birthday: September 15
Education: The University of Illinois: BS in Music Education
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Wreath of Achievement
SAI Anniversary-1976
Laura comes from a musical family and started piano in kindergarten and clarinet when she was in 4th grade. She has a BS in music education from the University of Illinois and has spent more than 40 years directing children's and adult vocal and handbell church choirs, currently at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Iowa City. She is a member of the Chamber Singers of Iowa City. She is retired from her position as the administrator for the Departments of American studies and Gender, Women's, and Sexuality studies at the University of Iowa. Since retiring, she has taken up pickleball and bridge, and is learning to play ukulele. She has 2 adult children, 4 grandchildren, and 4 granddogs.
Musical talent: clarinet, voice, and piano
Birthday: September 15
Education: The University of Illinois: BS in Music Education
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Rose of Honor, Wreath of Achievement
SAI Anniversary-1976
Laura comes from a musical family and started piano in kindergarten and clarinet when she was in 4th grade. She has a BS in music education from the University of Illinois and has spent more than 40 years directing children's and adult vocal and handbell church choirs, currently at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Iowa City. She is a member of the Chamber Singers of Iowa City. She is retired from her position as the administrator for the Departments of American studies and Gender, Women's, and Sexuality studies at the University of Iowa. Since retiring, she has taken up pickleball and bridge, and is learning to play ukulele. She has 2 adult children, 4 grandchildren, and 4 granddogs.
Rebecca Kopelman
Musical talent: Flute
Birthday: October 18
Education: University of Florida: B.S. in Telecommunications, Mississippi State University: Master's in Meteorology
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2013
Rebecca is the morning meteorologist on Iowa's News Now (KGAN/KFXA). She is from Florida where her love for music was born - learning to play on her aunt's old flute in middle school. Rebecca joined SAI in 2013 at the University of Florida to keep music in her life while she worked toward her degree. She lives in Cedar Rapids and enjoys backpacking, hiking, zumba and hanging with her three stepkids in her free time.
Musical talent: Flute
Birthday: October 18
Education: University of Florida: B.S. in Telecommunications, Mississippi State University: Master's in Meteorology
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 2013
Rebecca is the morning meteorologist on Iowa's News Now (KGAN/KFXA). She is from Florida where her love for music was born - learning to play on her aunt's old flute in middle school. Rebecca joined SAI in 2013 at the University of Florida to keep music in her life while she worked toward her degree. She lives in Cedar Rapids and enjoys backpacking, hiking, zumba and hanging with her three stepkids in her free time.
Valerie McNally
Musical talent: Clarinet
Birthday:November 6
Education: Bachelors of Music 1977
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1974
Valerie attended high school at Dubuque Hempstead and graduated in 1973. She studied music at Drake University from 1973 to 1975, and then transferred to the University of Iowa, where she received her Bachelor of Music degree in 1977. Valerie taught instrumental music in Downers Grove, Illinois from 1978 until 1980. Then, she moved to Portland, Oregon, where she taught 4-8 grade Instrumental and Vocal Music, from 1980 to 1990. She moved to Iowa in the spring of 1990, at which time she took a band position in Marion, Iowa. After two years, Valerie took a position in the Iowa City Schools, where she taught band for twenty years. Valerie retired from public school teaching in 2012, after 35 years of teaching. She continues to play the clarinet in the Iowa City Community Band, the Mt. Vernon Community Band, and the Kirkwood College Band. Valerie is married to fellow musician Paul McNally, a retired Iowa City band director and trombonist.
Musical talent: Clarinet
Birthday:November 6
Education: Bachelors of Music 1977
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary- 1974
Valerie attended high school at Dubuque Hempstead and graduated in 1973. She studied music at Drake University from 1973 to 1975, and then transferred to the University of Iowa, where she received her Bachelor of Music degree in 1977. Valerie taught instrumental music in Downers Grove, Illinois from 1978 until 1980. Then, she moved to Portland, Oregon, where she taught 4-8 grade Instrumental and Vocal Music, from 1980 to 1990. She moved to Iowa in the spring of 1990, at which time she took a band position in Marion, Iowa. After two years, Valerie took a position in the Iowa City Schools, where she taught band for twenty years. Valerie retired from public school teaching in 2012, after 35 years of teaching. She continues to play the clarinet in the Iowa City Community Band, the Mt. Vernon Community Band, and the Kirkwood College Band. Valerie is married to fellow musician Paul McNally, a retired Iowa City band director and trombonist.
Lara Quiles
Musical Talent: Trumpet, Voice - Alto
Birthday: April 4
Education: Kirkwood Community College: A.A. Liberal Arts; University of Iowa: B.A. Elementary Education (Reading, Talented and Gifted Endorsements)
SAI Anniversary: 2007
Lara is a Kindergarten teacher at Harrison Elementary in the Cedar Rapids Community School District. She grew up in Cedar Rapids, IA and graduated from Washington High School in 2006. Lara was initiated into the Zeta Epsilon chapter of SAI in April of 2007, and has held the office of Sergeant at Arms ('14-'15) and Vice-President of Ritual ('15-'16) of Zeta Epsilon chapter. After her freshman year of college at the University of Iowa, Lara enlisted in the Naval Reserves and held an 8-year contract supporting Command Naval Forces Korea, and worked in various I.T. roles as a civilian, including Systems Support Analyst, for 6 of those years. After receiving her A.A. in Liberal Arts from Kirkwood Community College, she returned to the University of Iowa in 2013 to pursue a career in Elementary Education. She graduated in 2016, with Honors in Elementary Education. Throughout her years at the U of I and Kirkwood, Lara has played trumpet in the Jazz Repertory Ensemble, The University of Iowa's University Band, and Kirkwood's University Band. She has also been a member of the University of Iowa's University Choir and Camerata Choir. Lara lives in Solon, IA with her husband, Ryan, their two children, Theodore and Teresa, and a kitty (JackJack). She enjoys reading, crafting, weightlifting, and baking.
Musical Talent: Trumpet, Voice - Alto
Birthday: April 4
Education: Kirkwood Community College: A.A. Liberal Arts; University of Iowa: B.A. Elementary Education (Reading, Talented and Gifted Endorsements)
SAI Anniversary: 2007
Lara is a Kindergarten teacher at Harrison Elementary in the Cedar Rapids Community School District. She grew up in Cedar Rapids, IA and graduated from Washington High School in 2006. Lara was initiated into the Zeta Epsilon chapter of SAI in April of 2007, and has held the office of Sergeant at Arms ('14-'15) and Vice-President of Ritual ('15-'16) of Zeta Epsilon chapter. After her freshman year of college at the University of Iowa, Lara enlisted in the Naval Reserves and held an 8-year contract supporting Command Naval Forces Korea, and worked in various I.T. roles as a civilian, including Systems Support Analyst, for 6 of those years. After receiving her A.A. in Liberal Arts from Kirkwood Community College, she returned to the University of Iowa in 2013 to pursue a career in Elementary Education. She graduated in 2016, with Honors in Elementary Education. Throughout her years at the U of I and Kirkwood, Lara has played trumpet in the Jazz Repertory Ensemble, The University of Iowa's University Band, and Kirkwood's University Band. She has also been a member of the University of Iowa's University Choir and Camerata Choir. Lara lives in Solon, IA with her husband, Ryan, their two children, Theodore and Teresa, and a kitty (JackJack). She enjoys reading, crafting, weightlifting, and baking.
Mariah Schlueter
Musical talent: Voice (mezzo-soprano)
Birthday: December 3
Education: Liberal Arts, Associate of Arts, Kirkwood Community College (2016); Theatre Studies, Bachelor of Arts, St. Mary's University of Minnesota (2023)
SAI Anniversary: 2023
Mariah is an actor, singer, and writer from Eastern Iowa. She holds degrees from Kirkwood Community College and St. Mary's University of Minnesota. Mariah has appeared in theatre productions with Giving Tree Theater in Marion, MVLCT in Mt. Vernon, and Iowa City Community Theatre in Iowa City.
Musical talent: Voice (mezzo-soprano)
Birthday: December 3
Education: Liberal Arts, Associate of Arts, Kirkwood Community College (2016); Theatre Studies, Bachelor of Arts, St. Mary's University of Minnesota (2023)
SAI Anniversary: 2023
Mariah is an actor, singer, and writer from Eastern Iowa. She holds degrees from Kirkwood Community College and St. Mary's University of Minnesota. Mariah has appeared in theatre productions with Giving Tree Theater in Marion, MVLCT in Mt. Vernon, and Iowa City Community Theatre in Iowa City.
Pam Schulz
Musical Talent: Voice (Mezzo), Euphonium, Handbells
Birthday: October 11
Education: BA in Music Education from the University of Iowa in 1997, MA in Educational Administration from the University of Iowa in 2002
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Ruby Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 1994
Pam lives in Marion with her husband Eric, and two sons Grant and Jackson. After twenty years in public education she moved to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, currently serving as the Executive Director. She is active in the livestream ministry and worship arts. Pam serves on the Executive Board of the Iowa State Chapter of the P.E.O. Sisterhood and is a member of the Marion Cares Board of Directors. She is also a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach.
Musical Talent: Voice (Mezzo), Euphonium, Handbells
Birthday: October 11
Education: BA in Music Education from the University of Iowa in 1997, MA in Educational Administration from the University of Iowa in 2002
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor, Ruby Sword of Honor
SAI Anniversary: 1994
Pam lives in Marion with her husband Eric, and two sons Grant and Jackson. After twenty years in public education she moved to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, currently serving as the Executive Director. She is active in the livestream ministry and worship arts. Pam serves on the Executive Board of the Iowa State Chapter of the P.E.O. Sisterhood and is a member of the Marion Cares Board of Directors. She is also a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach.
Kaitlyn (Kai) Skaggs
Musical Talent: Voice (Mezzo)
Birthday: July 2nd
Education: BA in Health Science from the University of Iowa in 2009, AAS in Paramedicine from Crowder College in 2021
SAI Anniversary: 2008
Kai lives in Marion with her husband Clark. They are in the process of adopting three beautiful children, a five-year-old girl and three- and two-year-old boys. They also have a dog, Chap. She works as a Paramedic for the University of Iowa Community Clinics Urgent Cares and Mercy Cedar Rapids Emergency Department. She enjoys performing in theatrical productions when the opportunity presents itself and as well as volunteering at the Community Health Free Clinic. She also volunteers with Girls on the Run. In her rare free time, you'll likely find her baking, reading, jogging, or outdoors.
Musical Talent: Voice (Mezzo)
Birthday: July 2nd
Education: BA in Health Science from the University of Iowa in 2009, AAS in Paramedicine from Crowder College in 2021
SAI Anniversary: 2008
Kai lives in Marion with her husband Clark. They are in the process of adopting three beautiful children, a five-year-old girl and three- and two-year-old boys. They also have a dog, Chap. She works as a Paramedic for the University of Iowa Community Clinics Urgent Cares and Mercy Cedar Rapids Emergency Department. She enjoys performing in theatrical productions when the opportunity presents itself and as well as volunteering at the Community Health Free Clinic. She also volunteers with Girls on the Run. In her rare free time, you'll likely find her baking, reading, jogging, or outdoors.
Jean Weber
Musical talent: voice and keyboard; bassoon and saxophone many years ago
Birthday: May 12
Education: Bachelor of Music Education, University of Iowa
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor; Rose of Honor; Rose of Constancy
SAI Anniversary: 1974
Jean began her music career teaching high school vocal music for 7 years. Following her teaching adventure, she began working as an administrative assistant at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, where she recently retired in November 2023 after almost 38 years of service. Jean and Bill had two daughters who are now adults, Erin living in Portland, OR and Emily in Cedar Rapids, IA. She enjoys walking, crafting/sewing, reading, baking, crossword puzzles, Hawkeye football (& the Hawkeye Marching Band) and basketball, and Facebook. Jean is looking forward to more traveling -- especially to the Pacific northwest. With more time available, she anticipates new projects and some volunteering when the time is right.
Musical talent: voice and keyboard; bassoon and saxophone many years ago
Birthday: May 12
Education: Bachelor of Music Education, University of Iowa
SAI Awards: Sword of Honor; Rose of Honor; Rose of Constancy
SAI Anniversary: 1974
Jean began her music career teaching high school vocal music for 7 years. Following her teaching adventure, she began working as an administrative assistant at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, where she recently retired in November 2023 after almost 38 years of service. Jean and Bill had two daughters who are now adults, Erin living in Portland, OR and Emily in Cedar Rapids, IA. She enjoys walking, crafting/sewing, reading, baking, crossword puzzles, Hawkeye football (& the Hawkeye Marching Band) and basketball, and Facebook. Jean is looking forward to more traveling -- especially to the Pacific northwest. With more time available, she anticipates new projects and some volunteering when the time is right.