Millennium Magazine_9th Ed

112 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine EDUCATION Dedicating his time to civic endeavors as well, Mr. Thelen has been a longtime member of the Optimist Club, where he served as past president, secretary-treasurer, lieutenant governor and governor. He was named Optimist of the Year on multiple occasions during his tenure with the organization. Additionally, he has maintained membership with the North Platte Municipal Band and the Heartland Singers. Earlier in his career, he was involved in the United States Air Force, where he served as an administrative officer, squadron commander and social actions officer. Married to his wife since 1977, Mr. Thelen is the proud father of five children: Kelley, Jeff, Scott, Courtney and Tamara. He also has eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A native of Denver, Colorado, he now resides in North Platte, Nebraska. In his spare time, Mr. Thelen enjoys spending time with his family, fishing and traveling. Driven by a lifelong love formusic and the creative arts, David Lawrence Thelen received a Bachelor of Science in music education and a Master of Arts from the University of Wyoming in 1969 and 1975, respectively. Spending numerous years playing in various marching bands, he has excelled as the second chair clarinet for the Sandhills Symphony Orchestra. As time progressed, Mr. Thelen delved into music education at the Stapleton Public School System in Nebraska, and served for 20 years as a music educator for kindergarten through 12th grade at various schools. Recently retiring in 2020, he was a music educator for choir and band for the Stapleton Public School System. Although his career has been filled with highlights, Mr. Thelen is especially proud of being afforded the opportunity to bring one of his bands to China, where theyperformedbefore a live audience. He also was privileged to have the opportunity to sing at Carnegie Hall in NewYork, as well as witness one of his own students also sing at Carnegie Hall. As a testament to his resounding success in the field, Mr. Thelen was named a Cambridge Professional of the Year in Secondary Education in 2010. DAVID LAWRENCE THELEN MUSIC EDUCATOR (RETIRED) Stapleton Public School System North Platte, NE

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