Meet Our Officer Team
Alexis Bell
President
John Mark Junkins
An enthusiastic Orff-certified educator and advocate for music education, Alexis Bell teaches K–5 general music in Springfield, Missouri. She is passionate about guiding students through meaningful music-making and movement experiences and leads the Orff ensemble Hands in Rhythm. Bell also provides students with opportunities to explore modern band through after-school clubs, Rock 101 and Rock On. She is dedicated to serving the Northwest Arkansas music education community by programming high-quality professional development for music teachers.
Secretary
Kristen Wages
Treasurer
Dixie Smith
With Level III certification, Kristin possesses a deep understanding of the Schulwerk's sequential approach. In her role as treasurer, she oversees the chapter's finances, maintains compliance with IRS policies, and ensures our documentation reflects our goals for growth and inclusivity.
Past-President
Dixie L Smith, a distinguished educator with 30 years of experience, leads the music program at Happy Hollow Elementary in Fayetteville, AR. A specialist in Orff-Schulwerk and World Music Drumming, she emphasizes student wellbeing and innovative instruction. As Past President of the Arkansas Travelers Orff Chapter, Dixie has dedicated years to expanding professional development. She currently serves as a mentor for University of Arkansas interns and conducts workshops focused on movement and curriculum, advocating for music as a pillar of childhood development.
District Chairs
Wendy Stewart
Fayetteville District Chair
Michelle Cramer
Wendy brings a hometown connection to her classroom, teaching K-4 music at the very school where her own music education began in Fayetteville, Arkansas. A dedicated student of pedagogy herself, she recently completed Level 1 of Orff-Schulwerk in Nashville, Tennessee, Level 2 of Kodály in Springfield, Missouri and continually seeks out and shares professional development opportunities, in person or online. This year, Wendy looks forward to bringing the hands-on, playful spirit of Orff-Schulwerk into her students' musical experience.
Springdale District Chair
Interested in Joining the Board?
We will hold our next board elections in Spring 2027. We invite you to reach out to our current board members if you are interested in learning more about these leadership opportunities within our chapter.