Dr. Marshaun R. Hymon asked the question, “How does choir impact young Black men?” based on his life experience and the impact choir had on him. What Dr. Hymon found provides us with tangible things we can do to create the space, respect, opportunities, and experiences to allow for our singers to be their most authentic selves. This episode is designed to give you time to think and find ways to implement “catalysts of change” in your choir classroom. As Dr. Hymon says towards the end of this episode - “You have the power!”

Read more about Dr. Hymon: www.marshaunrhymon.com

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*Show music originally written by Mr. Todd Monsell

**Show photography provided by Dr. Dan Biggerstaff

Dr. Hymon’s Bio:

Dr. Marshaun R. Hymon currently serves as Program Manager and Regional Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) for Year Up. In this role, Marshaun works to "close the opportunity divide" by overseeing organizational performance and staff professional coaching. Additionally, in collaboration with the region’s DEI Leadership Teams, he works to create more inclusive spaces and equitable practices within the region. Most recently, Marshaun was invited to deliver a DEI training for the California All-State Educator’s Association conference, and was featured on the Los Angeles based Podcast, Motivation for Black People.

Prior to joining Year Up, he served as a Student Success Advisor in the office of Student Onboarding at Florida State College at Jacksonville, where he worked with students as they transitioned into post-secondary education. Marshaun began his career as a music educator, and has served in many capacities with the Tallahassee, Savannah and Jacksonville Children's Choir. Marshaun also served as a Director of Choral Activities for the Flagler County School District.

Outside of his current work with Year Up, Marshaun is the Principal Consultant for Hymon Consulting Group, LLC. He most recently finished a consulting contract with the Getty Museum & Trust where he develop equity-focused programming for their summer internship programs. He is now on contract with One Workplace supporting in developing organizational DEI strategy. Marshaun is an Assistant Professor at West Los Angeles College, where he teaches college, career and employment readiness courses.

Dr. Hymon earned a Bachelor of Music in Choral Music Education from Florida State University and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida. Marshaun received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of California, Los Angeles. His research interests are race in America, identity development and the impact of music on the schooling success of young Black men. Marshaun looks forward to presenting his research at the 2021 American Choral Directors Association National Conference.