Dr. Lucia Unrau, professor of music and music department chair at Bluffton University, was awarded the Ohio Music Teachers Association Collegiate Teacher of the Year award during the annual state conference Nov. 5-7 in Van Wert.

"I am honored to receive this prestigious award," said Unrau. "Teaching is very important to me and it's great to be recognized in this manner." She was nominated by teachers in the Middle West district which ranges from the Findlay area to Bellefontaine and west to the Indiana border. Unrau is the first Bluffton music faculty member to receive the award.

Every spring, each of the eight districts in the state of Ohio nominates a teacher for the state Teacher of the Year award. A winner is selected by outside evaluators. The application process involves collecting letters from former students and colleagues and submitting evidence of community involvement and a teaching philosophy.

The Ohio MTA is for music teachers who teach private lessons in any instrument. They promote professionalism in the field and provide resources and continuing education to all teachers.