2024-2026 Phi Kappa Phi Artist

Stella Roden

Stella Roden, a distinguished professor of music at the University of Central Missouri, has been selected by The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi — the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society — as the 2024-2026 Phi Kappa Phi Artist. Roden received this award for his career accomplishment as a musician.

Roden received her doctorate of musical arts in vocal performance from the University of Connecticut her master’s degree in music in vocal performance from the New England Conservatory and her bachelor’s degree in music education from James Madison University.

This prestigious accolade acknowledges her illustrious career marked by exceptional contributions in teaching and performance. Roden's remarkable achievements have garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, including being second place winner of the Friedrich and Virginia Schorr, Memorial Award, Women in Art Song and serving as an Ambassador for the Barcelona Festival of Song. Her captivating performances have impressed audiences across the globe, from Kansas City, Missouri to Barcelona, Spain, showcasing her immense talent and artistry on both national and international stages.

Since the pandemic, she has worked to develop her skills in virtual music-making and teaching with technology. Her students are regularly recognized for their talents. In competitions, they place locally and regionally and even qualify for semi and quarter-final rounds of the national level of the National Association of Teachers of Singing annual auditions. Many of her students have become successful music teachers at all levels, including collegiate teaching at some of the best colleges and universities in the country.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized by Phi Kappa Phi for my artistic endeavors. To even be considered amongst my fine artist colleagues in Phi Kappa Phi, I am humbled,” said Roden. “I easily trace Phi Kappa Phi's support toward my growth as an artist, specifically, the Love of Learning grants which allowed me to travel and pursue training domestically and abroad.”