Earlier this month, five recent Vocal Performance graduates (‘24) from the studio of Dr. Karen Coker Merritt began new endeavors at prestigious programs and graduate schools across the country. We congratulate and celebrate these singers as they continue to solidify Stetson’s national reputation of excellence!

From left to right:

Emily Szubielski: accepted at New England Conservatory, the University of Kentucky, and Boston University. Emily is now enrolled in Boston University’s Performance Diploma program. 

Annalycia Franklin: accepted on full scholarship to the University of Georgia. Annalycia is currently pursuing professional programs and has recently been accepted to the live round of the Laffont Competition, (Florida District Metropolitan National Opera Council Auditions).

Isabel (Izzy) Barbato: accepted at Yale University, Mannes School of Music, Longy School of Music (Bard College), and CU Boulder College of Music. Izzy is now attending the Yale University Institute of Sacred Music as a member of the acclaimed 8-person Yale Voxtet, on full-tuition scholarship plus stipend. Izzy is happy to report that she recently passed all music placement exams at Yale—(analysis, musicianship, and music history)— with flying colors! 

Nidia Guevara-Nolasco: accepted at Rice University, University of Kentucky (3rd place winner, Alltech Competition), and the University of Houston. Nidia is now attending Rice University on full scholarship. 

Maria Almonte: accepted at Peabody Conservatory, Mannes School of Music, New England Conservatory, University of Michigan, Longy School of Music (Bard College), and Louisiana State University. Maria is now attending LSU on full fellowship. 

Dr. Merritt already misses this special group of singers very much, but she is thrilled to watch their continued growth in these prestigious programs. Congrats to this incredibly talented, wonderfully ambitious bunch!