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AR-CDA Presentation Speech:
Arkansas American Choral Director Association recognizes an individual whose unwavering dedication, quiet strength, and lasting impact shapes the choral community in Arkansas in extraordinary ways. The Trailblazer Award, named in honor of the incomparable Carrie Taylor, stands as a tribute to those who lead not for recognition but out of a deep love for students, music, and excellence

Carrie was more than a teacher—she was a mentor, a model of grace and grit, and a tireless champion for choral music across our state. Her legacy lives on in the countless people she empowered and inspired, and in the standard of excellence she set for all of us.

This year’s honoree has walked a remarkably similar path.

After what many might consider a well-earned retirement, this individual returned—not for accolades or titles, but to stand in the gap where students needed them most. In doing so, they didn’t just sustain a program—they revived it. And in true Trailblazer fashion, they did so with humility, strength, and a quiet confidence that continues to ripple through the lives of students and colleagues alike.

They have lifted others, modeled excellence, and quietly shaped the future of choral music in Arkansas. And I can say, personally, that I am one of the many who have been changed for the better because of them.

It is with great pride and deep gratitude that the Arkansas- American Choral Director Association present this year’s Trailblazer Award in honor of Carrie Taylor, to… Mrs. Bennie Vincent. 

After 31 years of teaching dance, gymnastics, and cheerleading to amazing students from Monticello and Southeast Arkansas, I am excited to announce my retirement from KDF.

From our humble beginnings at the old skating rink on 425 south to our dance and gymnastics spaces on the Monticello Square and, finally, to KDF’s current home since 2001, The Lord has blessed us with countless relationships with students and families over the years. Big thanks to them for the support and love they have shown me and my family. The Monticello / SEARK community has supported KDF and has made my career in dance such a joy!

I want to thank my husband, Steve, for his tireless support and for helping me make KDF a reality. Thank you to my sons, Cody, Clint, and Cade, for always supporting me and all the “dance projects.” To my parents, thanks for giving me the gift of dance when I was young that fueled this incredible journey. Thank you to my sweet friends who were always there to help and support !

To all members of the KDF Team over the 31 years, thank you!  We couldn’t have done it without you. Special thanks to Mary Ramsey, the best gymnastics teacher around, for our wonderful 24 year partnership.

KDF is very near and dear to my heart!
News about its future will be announced in the coming days!

?? Ms. Kim