Elaine Swofford

Mrs.Swofford directing the Jr. High Band (www.eMissourian.com)

My hero is an amazing woman. Someone who can handle any stress and multiple tasks under any situation. Someone who is extremely intelligent; talented; and hard working. She is the woman who is everything I hope to be, which includes being caring; determined; brave; and courageous…. and her name is Mrs. Elaine Elizabeth Swofford.

Mrs. Swofford has dedicated many years to teaching and to music; she has paved a road of dedication and determination for herself. As a child who played music on her clarinet, she was always heartbroken by the fact that her school did not offer opportunities to audition for more advanced musical groups, such as honor bands and ensembles. So when she left home to attend college at Central Methodist University, she made the promise to work her hardest and someday provide the opportunities, which she herself was never given, to others. Hoping to help and motivate aspiring young musicians like her.

I think that Mrs. Swofford has done magnificent job at achieving her goals. Not only has she given those opportunities to hundreds upon hundreds of young students. She has also been my inspiration and motivation. She has been good and through in her job as a teacher and musician. She certainly has taught me more than anyone else I know.

Mrs.Swofford encouraging the students to play sof (www.eMissourian.com)

I also see her as the embodiment of the talent I hope to be. She is a hero because a real hero cares about everyone else before themselves, and she gives her students her 110% every single day. She uses her words to inspire, not only her actions.

“It’s not just notes; it’s your emotions that make the difference in your music.” Is something she said specifically to me that made all the difference in me as a musician. She also challenges me by continuously telling me that I am “My own biggest threat”. Mrs. Swofford is my hero because encourages me to be brave and fulfill my dreams, in the same way the she did.