Alumnus named as finalist for Grammy Music Educator Award

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Stephen Blanco, BM '18, was nominated as a finalist for the prestigious 2025 Grammy Museum and Recording Academy Music Educator Award.

As the mariachi director at Las Vegas High School in the Clark County School District, Blanco has been instrumental in leading Mariachi Joya, which was founded in 2018 and is the top ensemble group of the high school’s mariachi program. Mariachi Joya has achieved numerous accolades under Blanco's leadership, including performances at the White House.

Blanco was one of only 10 music teachers selected from more than 2,400 nominations nationwide. The award recognizes educators who make a remarkable contribution to music education. His dedication and commitment to maintaining music programs in schools earned him this honor as well as a $1,000 honorarium along with a matching grant for his school.

Reflecting on his time at Western, Blanco credits his success to the guidance and inspiration he received from his professors and mentors.

“My music professors, my mentor teachers and countless others led by example throughout my four years at Western,” Blanco says. “I attribute much of my success to trying to channel their teaching and classroom management styles.” ■