Shanna was named the first Presser Scholar at William Paterson University of New Jersey, a NASM Accredited Hispanic Serving Institution added to the Scholar Award Program in 2023-24.
Shanna graduated as a Music Education major and percussionist. According to the faculty, “In all respects she is humble, hardworking, courteous, studious, and a true team player. She is loved by her professors and peers and is consistently one of the brightest lights in our community.”
Off campus, she worked with the Pequannock, Passaic, and Wayne Valley High School marching bands. Passaic is a Title I district, where students have few resources. Shanna has been a beacon of hope for many of these students, and an exemplary role model. She works with the students’ parents to help them feel comfortable, especially when their children are considering careers in music.
As a Latina woman, Shanna is in a minority status in the field of the percussive arts, which is still white male dominated. She stands strong, though, leading through her excellent musicianship and generous personality. Shanna is truly a trailblazer in the field and will undoubtedly lead the way for more Latinas in the percussive arts. She is also active on social media, presenting many compelling videos and tutorials and building a following and setting a great role model for younger Latina percussionists.
Shanna will likely use funds received through the Presser Award to purchase a vibraphone, which she will use for teaching, gigging, and practicing. Reflecting on the Award, Shana said, “The Presser Scholar Award has allowed me to continue making music by aiding me in the purchase of my own instrument. It’s an honor to have the opportunity to own an instrument as a percussion student because we are often stuck sharing school instruments. After graduating college, my access to these studio instruments is gone and by using the funds to purchase my own instrument, I can continue to practice for years to come. “
