Dr. Jordan VanHemert Recognized as OKJE Collegiate Jazz Educator of the Year

NSU professor honored for his contributions to jazz education and community partnerships.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Northeastern State University (NSU) is proud to announce that Dr. Jordan VanHemert, assistant professor of music, has received the Collegiate Jazz Educator of the Year award from the Oklahoma Jazz Educators Association (OKJE). The annual honor recognizes VanHemert's commitment to creating transformative opportunities for students and building meaningful community partnerships through his work at NSU.

Why it matters

This award highlights Dr. VanHemert's role as a driving force in jazz and jazz education, showcasing his passion and impact on the artistic growth and success of his students. As the Director of the Jazz Studies and Commercial Music program at NSU, he has overseen the expansion of the music curriculum, including the addition of new minors and certificate programs.

The details

VanHemert is a prolific jazz saxophonist and composer with five internationally acclaimed albums. He brings the perspective of a global practitioner to the classroom, allowing him to mentor students with an authentic understanding of what it takes to be a successful modern musician. He emphasizes the importance of finding one's own voice and serving the music, which means serving people through mentorship.

  • Dr. VanHemert received the Collegiate Jazz Educator of the Year award from the Oklahoma Jazz Educators Association (OKJE) in 2026.

The players

Dr. Jordan VanHemert

An assistant professor of music at Northeastern State University (NSU) and the Director of the Jazz Studies and Commercial Music program, recognized as the OKJE Collegiate Jazz Educator of the Year for his contributions to jazz education and community partnerships.

T.J. Smith

The 2025 OKJE High School Jazz Director of the Year from Claremore Public Schools, who nominated Dr. VanHemert for the award.

Rodney Hanley

The President of Northeastern State University, who noted that Dr. VanHemert's honor highlights his role as a driving force in jazz and jazz education.

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What they’re saying

“I am honored by the recognition that we are building something meaningful. Jazz has a rich legacy at NSU.”

— Dr. Jordan VanHemert, Assistant Professor of Music, Northeastern State University (mcintoshdemocrat.com)

“I always say 'serve the music,' which means serving people. Jazz culture is all about mentorship. Mentorship thrives on the individual attention that we are able to provide at NSU. I teach my students about the importance of finding your own voice, and my students learn from someone who is actively touring and performing in today's musical landscape all around the world.”

— Dr. Jordan VanHemert, Assistant Professor of Music, Northeastern State University (mcintoshdemocrat.com)

“I nominated Dr. VanHemert because of all the great things he's done for my students and the students of others. He's built a great relationship with OKJE, constantly hosts our Fall Workshops, performs with our bands, and has taught numerous lessons and seminars to our students for free. I am proud to recommend VanHemert for this award and to encourage my own students to study with him!”

— T.J. Smith, 2025 OKJE High School Jazz Director of the Year, Claremore Public Schools (mcintoshdemocrat.com)

“This honor for Dr. VanHemert highlights his role as a driving force in jazz and jazz education. The passion he invests in his craft is evident not only in the high regard of his peers but also in the artistic growth and success of the students he inspires.”

— Rodney Hanley, President, Northeastern State University (mcintoshdemocrat.com)

What’s next

NSU plans to continue expanding its Jazz Studies and Commercial Music program under Dr. VanHemert's leadership, with the recent addition of new minors and a certificate program.

The takeaway

Dr. VanHemert's recognition as the OKJE Collegiate Jazz Educator of the Year underscores his commitment to mentoring students, building community partnerships, and advancing jazz education at Northeastern State University. His passion and expertise have had a transformative impact on his students and the broader jazz community.