#ThrowbackThursday: Jack Arend
Jack Arend – Music Education, 1988
Tell us a little about your background.
I grew up in Yakima, WA. I have 3 older brothers and we all were part of the West Valley Yakima School District. My father was a high school band director, and my mother was a special education paraprofessional. We lived on a small, 10-acre farm and had the opportunity to raise many different animals.
What did you study at WSU? Did you always know you wanted to study that?
I studied Music Education at WSU from 1983-1988. I always loved music and being in different instrumental ensembles. I actually thought I would be a Hotel/Restaurant major, but realized that my love for music, and teaching, was something I needed to pursue. While I thought that I would become a HS Band Director like my father, I actually found that singing was my real passion. Thanks to opportunities at WSU (Crimson Company, Concert Choir, etc) I focused my energy in my final two years at WSU on vocal music education.
What has been your favorite thing about WSU, as well as the College of Education?
My favorite thing about WSU was that it was BIG enough to offer so many opportunities and experiences and SMALL enough to feel like you really got to know the faculty and other students in your major. The feeling of being on the Pullman campus is something that still excites me and makes me feel like I get to be part of something very special!
Is there a memory you have from WSU that stands out in your mind as unforgettable, transformative, etc.?
I have so many incredible memories of my time at WSU. One year for the WSU Homecoming festivities, the rock group Foreigner was the headliner concert for the weekend. Our vocal ensemble, Crimson Company, was asked to perform with them at the concert. We had a great time learning the music with the group as well as performing for a packed Beasley Coliseum crowd!
What has your career path been since you left WSU? What do you currently do? Tell us about your NOW life!
My career path has been very exciting and rewarding. I started teaching in the Fall of 1989. I was a HS Choral Director for 14 years. What a great job! So many incredible students and parents. After my music teaching, I became an Elementary School Principal for 11 years. I finished my public school experience as a Central Office Program Manager. All of these positions I loved and feel that WSU helped prepare me for a successful career in education and leadership. I am currently the Deputy Director of the Association of Washington School Principals. I support Principals and Assistant Principals throughout the state through engaging and relevant professional learning.
What makes you an agent of change?
Change is difficult at any level. It takes time, patience, clear vision and a willingness to authentically listen to the perspective of other people and other cultures. I constantly am learning, asking questions and reflecting on who I am as a culturally-responsive leader.
Favorites
Food: Indian food is my favorite!
Restaurant in Pullman: I would say Cougar Country has been a favorite ever since I experienced it as a WSU Freshman in 1983!
Band: Earth, Wind & Fire
Favorite sport: Baseball
Favorite Coug sport: Football
Favorite spot on campus (when you were a student): The lawn in front of Holland Library looking at the beautiful Bryan Tower
Hobby: Singing ( I am involved with a wonderful community chorus)
Place to visit (you’ve been to): Munich, Germany
Dream vacation spot (you haven’t been to): Italy
