Trailblazing Educator Coty Raven Morris Nominated for GRAMMY Music Educator Award

Coty Raven Morris, an assistant professor of choir, music education, and social justice at Portland State University, has been nominated as a semifinalist for the GRAMMY Music Educator Award for the second consecutive year. This prestigious recognition highlights Morris' unwavering commitment to empowering students and fostering connections through the transformative power of music.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Musical Changemakers

Championing Inclusive Music Education

Coty Raven Morris is a trailblazer in the field of music education, dedicated to creating inclusive and equitable learning environments. As an assistant professor at Portland State University, she has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum and pedagogical approaches to ensure that students from diverse backgrounds feel empowered and represented. Through her innovative teaching methods, Morris has been able to break down barriers and foster a sense of belonging within her choir, music education, and social justice classes.One of the hallmarks of Morris' approach is her unwavering commitment to social justice. She recognizes that music education has the power to be a transformative force, not just in the lives of individual students, but in the broader community. By incorporating themes of diversity, equity, and inclusion into her lessons, Morris encourages her students to explore the intersections of music, identity, and social change.

Building Connections Through Choir

Beyond the classroom, Morris has also made a significant impact through her work with Being Human Together, an organization she founded to build connections between youth, educators, and people from marginalized communities, including those who are unhoused. Through choir performances and meaningful conversations, Morris and her team have been able to bridge divides and foster a greater sense of understanding and empathy.The choir performances organized by Being Human Together are more than just musical showcases; they are powerful platforms for amplifying the voices and experiences of those who have traditionally been marginalized. By inviting participants from diverse backgrounds to share their stories and express themselves through song, Morris has created a space for authentic dialogue and mutual understanding.

Overcoming Adversity Through Music

Coty Raven Morris' own journey has been marked by adversity, which has only strengthened her resolve to use music as a tool for personal and social transformation. Growing up, she found solace and opportunity in her high school choir, where she discovered a passion for music that would ultimately shape her career path.Despite the challenges she faced, Morris persevered, using her experiences to inform her teaching and advocacy work. She understands firsthand the transformative power of music education, and she is dedicated to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has access to the same opportunities that she once had.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Musical Changemakers

Coty Raven Morris' nomination as a semifinalist for the GRAMMY Music Educator Award is a testament to her unwavering dedication and the profound impact she has had on her students and the broader community. By empowering the next generation of musical changemakers, Morris is not only shaping the future of music education but also contributing to a more just and equitable society.As she continues to inspire and uplift her students, Morris' story serves as a powerful reminder that music has the ability to transcend boundaries, heal wounds, and bring people together. Her work is a testament to the transformative power of music and the profound difference that one dedicated educator can make in the lives of countless individuals.