Episode 2.4: Dr. Michquelena (Micki) Potlunas Ferguson- Women in Marching Bands

Dr. Michquelena Potlunas Ferguson currently serves as an Assistant Director of Athletic Bands at the Pennsylvania State University. In her role, she assists with the direction of the Penn State Marching Blue Band, the “Pride of the Lions” Pep Band, the Campus Band, teaches music courses, and supervises student teachers. Prior to her current appointment, she was a Lecturer of Music, teaching courses in music education and assisting with the direction of athletic and concert bands while concurrently completing her Ph.D. in Music Education from Penn State. Ferguson holds a Master of Music degree in Music Education from West Chester University, a Master of Business Administration degree from Alvernia University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Penn State.

Ferguson’s research interests include Title IX’s effects on women in collegiate athletic bands, investigating the role of women as leaders in music education, and athletic band musicianship. She has presented her research at state, national, and international music education conferences. Prior to returning to higher education, Ferguson taught in the Pennsylvania Public Schools for ten years, primarily in high school instrumental music. Ferguson previously served as the Senior High School Band Director and Music Department K-12 Chairperson in the Exeter Township School District in Reading, PA. At Exeter Township, Ferguson was responsible for directing the marching band, the concert band, the auditioned wind ensemble, jazz bands, AP Music Theory, and general music courses in popular music and music technology.

You can read Dr. Potlunas Ferguson's dissertation via link on the F-flat Books Website.

You can access a NAfME Session/ more information on action research by reaching out to Marissa Guarriello, Maggie Harrigan, Sarah Gulish, Matt Clauhs, or Erik Piazza. Their contact info is available via the F-flat Books Website