24 yrs have passed since I was a student at Berkner High School. I thought it would be easy to express my love and sincere admiration to a woman who I consider responsible for teaching me what it meant to 'own a piece musically.' Yet my efforts are hampered by tears and heartbreak. I had the pleasure of being part of the JV and Varsity choirs while attending Berkner under Mrs. Casey's direction. I am proud to say I was one of her students during the early years of her 19 yr tenure at BHS. Early on it was apparent she loved music and it was her intent to plant and nurture that love in each of us. She affectionately gave me the nickname 'EP' for Ebony Princess. When I asked her, 'Why?' she simply responded, 'Because when you walk into a room, Honey, you own it with you presence!'. 'Now, I am going to teach you to own it vocally!' She did. Everything I ever learned about vocal performance I owe to Glenda and to Jim. Every U.I.L Superior rating I earned as a soloist and as a choir member was due to her methodical and compassionate commitment to importance of expressing the 'story' of each song and drawn my listener (judges) in to my piece. I studied privately with Jim. He and Glenda were truly on one accord; his methods echoed hers and vice versa. I spent most of Monday and Tuesday crying. Two teachers who I owe so very much are gone now. Before the 'Teamwork' 'Excellence' 'Commitment' poster series became popular in corporate America, their meaning was being taught and lived by the students of Glenda J. Casey. It has been said, 'Real education should educate us out of self into something far finer; into selflessness which links us with all humanity.' – Astor. For her students that link was music. Mrs. Casey, you taught me to sing in every aspect of my life. Somehow 'Thank you' just doesn't suffice. In the end Cancer did not take you. It was simply the means of which you were delivered to our Lord and Savior. You have a new life, a new body, and you are Healed in Jesus Name. Until my time comes, I will continue to honor you by living my life with the same passion and commitment you taught and lived. Until then, I hope to sing with you again. Love You Forever, 'EP' Jacqueline Thompson, JV Chorus President (1980-82) Varsity Chorale President (1983-1984)
