Cynthia Libby is a person I have admired for a long time, as I have watched her diligence, grace, and high standards that she demonstrates in all of her endeavors. Her work includes teaching oboe as Professor of Oboe at Missouri State, performing locally and world-wide. She is also an active writer and critic. Libby’s articles celebrating women in music have been published in Women of Note Quarterly, The International Alliance of Women in Music Journal, The Journal of the International Double Reed Society, the Norton/Grove Dictionary of Women Composers and others. While maintaining a busy professional schedule, she finds time to teach therapeutic harp to her students to play for area cancer patients along with numerous other community service activities. A 2007 graduate of the International Harp Therapy program, she is the only Certified Harp Therapy Practitioner in the state of Missouri, and established the first course dealing with the healing power of music at Missouri State University. As I have observed Cynthia's work over a number of years, she has been an inspiration and role model for me through her musical excellence, promotion of women's works, and ability to balance family, community service, and a successful professional life. I am proud to nominate Cynthia Libby for this award.