May 1, 2023 2 min read

Upper St. Clair High School choral director Lorraine Milovac was honored with the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 1 Citation of Excellence during the organization’s state conference

The Citation of Excellence recognizes PMEA members who have made lasting contributions in their area of teaching. The award is presented annually to individuals representing each of PMEA’s 12 districts. District 1 encompasses Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, Washington and Westmoreland counties and contains 94 school districts.

In his letter of support, Dr. John Seybert stated that Milovac’s dedication and service to music education at all levels makes her an excellent candidate for this recognition.

“Teaching is not just a career for Lorraine; it is her life,” said Seybert, who is performing arts curriculum leader and director of high school bands. “Her commitment and passion for excellence are evidenced in all aspects of her work with individuals and ensembles.”

Milovac teaches theater, co-teaches AP music theory, and directs the women’s choir, Clarion choir, men’s ensemble, Pantheon choir and the Chanteclairs at USC. She serves as adviser for the International Thespian Society and Tri-M Music Honors Society. She is also the vocal director for the spring musical.

Prior to joining the USC faculty in 2005, Milovac served as the high school choral director in the Woodland Hills School District.

In addition to nominations from her colleagues, Seybert and Christine Hestwood, as well as Dr. Timothy Wagner, principal, Milovac was also nominated for the award by several music directors from throughout the region. North Hills High School choral director Shaun Cloonan was among the nominators.

In addition to her roles at USC, Milovac has served as the director of the women’s choral ensemble at the University of Pittsburgh for the past 24 years. She also serves as the assistant music director at Westminster Presbyterian Church.

In 2013, Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra named Milovac one of its music educators of the year. In 2009, she was selected as one of the top 100 teachers among 83 school districts in the Teacher Excellence Center program.