Montana (Hollis) Fassnacht’s path from student to educator highlights the transformative power of passion and commitment.
Graduating in the spring of 2020, Fassnacht wasted no time in launching her career, securing a position as a middle school band director in the Massillon City Schools. There, she taught students in grades 5-8 and played a pivotal role in the Massillon Tiger Swing Band, the school’s marching band.
After a successful tenure, Fassnacht transitioned to Revere High School, where she now serves as the Assistant Band Director, engaging with a diverse range of students, teaching Beginning Band, General Music, and High School Concert Band, while also assisting with middle school bands and the High School Wind Ensemble. As she continues down the path of her professional life, Fassnacht is now exploring Master’s programs in Music Education, with plans to further enhance her skills within the next year.
Fassnacht credits her time at Kent State University for equipping her with the tools necessary for success in her career. "The College of the Arts set me up for success as an educator," she shares. Her Instrumental Methods classes were particularly influential, providing her with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the classroom. Additionally, her experience as a student office assistant for the University Bands granted her invaluable administrative insights that she now applies daily in her work.
Networking played a significant role in Fassnacht’s professional development. Through connections made during her studies she has been able to grow her career alongside fellow alumni, enriching her teaching approach and expanding her opportunities. As a proud alumna, she actively encourages her students to participate in events hosted by Kent State University’s School of Music and the College of the Arts.
Reflecting on her decision to attend Kent State, Fassnacht describes it as one of the best choices she could have made. Initially starting her college journey at a small private liberal arts school, she quickly realized her true passion lay in teaching music. After switching her major to Music Education and visiting Kent State, she found her place in the vibrant music community. "Professor Amitai Vardi was gracious enough to offer me a clarinet lesson and I fell in love with the studio, the school and the campus," she recalls, emphasizing how pivotal that experience was for her.
Beyond academics, Fassnacht’s time at Kent State also blossomed into a personal milestone; it was here that she began her relationship with her husband, who is also a band director. "I truly owe so much to my time at Kent State," she reflects, underscoring the profound impact the university had on both her professional and personal life.
Today, Fassnacht continues to inspire the next generation of musicians, fueled by the foundation built during her time at Kent State. As she looks toward the future, her commitment to music education and her students remains unwavering.