Students
2025-2026 Student Spotlight
Celebrating the Passion, Talent, and Dedication of Our Students
Each month, we shine a light on one outstanding student who embodies the spirit of our School of Music—through academic excellence, performance achievements, leadership, and community impact.
🎉 Congratulations to Diego Martinez, our September 2025 Student Spotlight! 🎉
Diego was nominated by his instructor, Dr. Renata Caceres Soares, who shared:
“Apart from doing a great job on his own double bass practice, he’s been very helpful
this past month in getting everything set up for the new double bass students and
making sure they have everything they need.”
Faculty members also praised Diego’s contributions and musicianship:
🎶 Robert Mangialardi (Opera): “Diego performed a Music Theater piece with my wife at a recent concert. His performance
was amazing—beautiful control and tone. His playing added so much to the evening!”
🎶 Logan Campbell (Interim Director): “Diego has done a great job leading by example for all students. His preparation,
time management, and enthusiasm provide a strong mentor to our new students, as well
as a strong reminder to our upperclassmen.”
🎶 Dr. Lisa Nelson (Head of Strings Area): “Diego is a wonderful, trustworthy, and responsible employee, as well as an excellent
student!”
🎶 Dr. Adriana Ponce (Head of Music History & Theory): “Diego is an intelligent, thoughtful, and hard-working student that represents the
best of IWU.”
👏 Please join us in celebrating Diego for his talent, leadership, and dedication to the School of Music!
Nominate a Student
Do you know someone who deserves to be in the spotlight? Faculty, staff, and students can submit nominations Student Spotlight Nomination Form.