USU Music Professor Greg Wheeler Inducted Into UMEA Hall of Fame

LOGAN, Utah — Utah State University Music Professor Greg Wheeler has been inducted into the Utah Music Educators Association Hall of Fame, recognizing his decades of contributions to music education.

A Logan native, Wheeler specializes in woodwinds and has performed as a freelance musician on multiple instruments. With a teaching career spanning more than 30 years, primarily in Cache Valley, he has been celebrated for his dedication to excellence. Examples of these awards can be found within his biography on his USU webpage. This recent recognition represents his continued excellence in teaching.

According to its website, the UMEA is an organization “dedicated to improving existing programs and creating opportunities for music learning, growth, and leadership.” The association focuses primarily on K-12 music education and hosts an annual awards recognition ceremony, where Wheeler was honored during its 53rd Annual Awards Recognition on Jan. 31.

“The UMEA offers music educators valuable opportunities to support one another and provide exceptional resources to students, shaping future generations,” Wheeler said. “I’m deeply honored to be recognized by the organization and look forward to continuing my collaborating with fellow UMEA members to elevate our community through music and music education.”

At this year’s conference, the USU Chamber Singers were honored as the featured collegiate choir for the state. USU participates in several events during UMEA conferences, including hosting a reception for USU alumni. This strong partnership with UMEA reflects USU's commitment to fostering excellence in music education, a dedication exemplified by the achievements of its faculty and alumni.

Wheeler’s induction highlights the faculty within USU’s Music Department and the Caine College of the Arts, whose professors combine professional expertise with a commitment to student success. At the same ceremony, USU alumni Rhonda Rhodes and Rod Wayman were also recognized for their achievements. Rhodes received the Outstanding Music Educator Award, while Wayman was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

“Dr. Wheeler’s induction into the UMEA Hall of Fame recognizes his impact on music education over the course of his entire career, from his public-school experience to his work preparing future teachers at Utah State University to his service to the profession as UMEA president and board member,” said Caine College of the Arts Dean Nicholas Morrison. “His work sets an outstanding example for all of us at the Caine College of the Arts and for our students as they enter the profession. The college is very proud of Greg and each of our alumni who were honored this year by their peers in UMEA.”

Wheeler’s induction places him among USU faculty members who have been honored in the UMEA Hall of Fame, including Max F. Dalby (2010), Al Wardle (2012), Glen Fifield (2012), Larry G. Smith (2015), Ralph Matesky (2016), and Leslie Timmons (2021), alongside numerous USU alumni who have also earned this recognition.