Frost Preparatory Program awarded 2021 Toppel Program of the Year

Congratulations to Megan Walsh, D.M.A. ’07, founder and director of the Frost Preparatory Program, on being awarded the prestigious 2021 Toppel Award for Program of the Year.
Frost Preparatory Program awarded 2021 Toppel Program of the Year
The Toppel Awards recognize outstanding University of Miami students, student organizations, faculty, staff members, and employers who exemplify a commitment to the professional development of themselves and/or others.

“I am so grateful for this well-deserved recognition for the entire Frost Prep Team,” states Megan Walsh, who founded the program 19 years ago. “It has been such an important part of so many students' lives, offering training, networking, and financial support, and I am proud the team has been recognized for all that they do. I look forward to seeing the program continue to grow and raise its profile on campus and in the community.”

This past year especially showed the vital role music education plays in the lives of students seeking music degrees. Due to the pandemic, other sources of income, such as performing in concerts, live music venues, and weddings, were all put on pause. By bringing technology and innovative teaching techniques to the existing client base, the program was able to offer uninterrupted employment to student teachers and help train them in techniques that will be a steady source of income in the future.

The Frost Preparatory Program offers real-life teaching experience, professional development for students, and the opportunity to earn a competitive market wage in a student's chosen field. This experience is invaluable for student teachers and allows them to begin to build themselves as professionals while still studying at the University of Miami. Currently, 41 out of 44 of the program’s instructors are Frost School undergraduates, graduate students, or recent graduates.

The pre-college music program offers a wide variety of course offerings for children ages 0-18. It is intended to develop a child’s individual interests and abilities in music, ranging from music appreciation to preparation for music conservatories.

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