Less than six months after one of his students was named a Presidential Scholar, Academy voice teacher Jeffrey Norris received national recognition of his own. The National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (NFAA) named Norris one of only two "Coca-Cola Distinguished Teachers in the Arts," for making a profound impact on students and demonstrating excellence in arts education. Norris is the first voice instructor ever to receive this honor, which he shares with this year's other honoree, Charles Hamilton, a jazz instructor from California. Both teachers were honored at a January presentation in Miami.

Norris has taught at the Academy for 21 years, engaging students and sharpening their skills while also providing encouragement. He explained that he strives to share with his students some of the grace that was once shown to him by his mentors.

One of Norris's most recent students is Tyler Hodges, 2006 Presidential Scholar in the Arts. "Every time I walked into the studio, there was an incredibly positive atmosphere, but Mr. Norris still pushed me to experiment with various styles, techniques and languages," said Hodges. "The result was an amazing process of discovery." Norris also taught Carlton Ford, another 2006 NFAA ARTS winner in Voice. Norris's former students are represented in the nation's finest conservatories and schools of music, as well as in premier opera companies in the U.S. and abroad. This is a source of great pride for Norris, who enjoys following the careers of his former students.

"It gives us great pleasure to honor these two marvelous teachers," said William H. Banchs, NFAA President. "Their efforts year after year are critical to our mission to assist young artists at critical junctures of their educational and professional development."

Theatre Division director, David Montee, was similarly recognized in 2004, as was Academy Creative Writing instructor Michael Delp in 2000.

The NFAA is a non-profit organization that assists emerging artists, promotes educational and professional development and raises appreciation for the arts.