Southeastern student singers excel at NATS conference

April 14, 2026

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Students from Southeastern Oklahoma State University delivered an outstanding performance at the Oklahoma chapter conference and student auditions of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), held this month at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.

Nine Southeastern student vocalists participated in the competition, with six advancing to the finals, demonstrating the strength and depth of the university’s vocal program.

Among the top finishers, Ryan Carlile, a junior from Wilson and a student of Dr. Stella Yoon, earned first place in the third-year TBB (tenor/bass/baritone) category. Javier Rodrigo, a sophomore from Sherman, Texas, also studying under Dr. Yoon, secured second place in the second-year TTB division.

Freshman Annah Gray of Atoka, another student of Dr. Yoon, placed third in the first-year treble category. Tevan Collins, a freshman from Sherman, Texas, and a student of Dr. Jeremy Blackwood, earned second place in the first-year TTB category.

Additional Southeastern students advancing to the finals included Averie Attaway, a senior from Sherman, Texas, and Zachary Jorgenson, a freshman from Durant. Other competitors representing Southeastern were Italey Brantley of Ardmore, April Narramore of Denison, Texas, and Ace Austin of Marietta.

Faculty members also played a key role in the students’ success. Dr. Sunny Yun accompanied two Southeastern singers on piano during the event, while Dr. Sunbeam Choi provided accompaniment for seven students.

Founded in 1944, the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) is the largest professional organization of singing teachers in the world, with more than 7,000 members across the United States, Canada, and nearly 30 other countries.

The strong showing at this year’s conference highlights Southeastern’s continued commitment to excellence in vocal performance and music education.