Madelyn Ostenson named LMC’s 2023 Outstanding Musician of the Year

Lake Michigan College’s Visual & Performing Arts Department has named Madelyn Ostenson as its 2023 Outstanding Musician of the Year.  

The St. Joseph resident and 2020 Lakeshore High School graduate spent two years as a member of LMC’s vocal chamber choir, SoundWaves, studied voice, guitar, and piano, and was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honors program. Ostenson graduated from LMC in May with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Music. 

“Madelyn is such a great student who is always very positive,” LMC Music Faculty Robert Lunn said. “She works extremely hard at her craft and made a lot of progress during her time here. She is very deserving of this award and has a bright future in music!” 

Ostenson, who was awarded a $10,000 scholarship, plans to attend Western Michigan University in the Fall to work towards a bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy. After graduation, she hopes to find a position close to home working with children. 

“I have been working with children since I was a teenager and love making a difference in their lives,” she said. “Music has always been a huge part of my life and I love the fact that I can use my talents and passion for music to make a difference in people's lives both mentally and physically.” 

Ostenson added that she is both humbled and grateful to be named LMC’s 2023 Outstanding Musician of the Year. 

“I am so lucky to have been a part of the music department at LMC and so thankful to all of my fellow classmates and to my professors for helping me succeed and flourish as a musician and as a person,” she said. “I loved how everyone in the music building was like a family and how encouraging we all were for one another. I am going to miss being a Red Hawk!” 

The Outstanding Musician of the Year award has been a department honor since 1975. 

For more information about LMC’s Visual & Performing Arts Department, visit lakemichigancollege.edu/arts.