Gracie Webb, left, receiving the 2025 Lee University Presser Award from Dr. William Green during the Masterworks concert on campus
Gracie Webb, a senior music education major with a piano emphasis and a minor in psychology from Davis, Illinois, was named Lee University’s 2025 Presser Undergraduate Scholar.
The Presser Foundation, established by music publisher Theodore Presser, is dedicated solely to the support of music and music education. With its Undergraduate Scholar Award, the Pennsylvania-based foundation recognizes music students who exemplify high academic and musical accomplishment, leadership, and citizenship at accredited colleges and universities across the country.
“The phrase ‘well-rounded musician’ comes to mind when I consider Gracie,” said Dr. William Green, dean of Lee’s School of Music. “An exceptional pianist, vocalist, and superb musical scholar are fitting descriptors of this amazing student.”
Ms. Webb is currently student teaching and has been widely involved in the Lee community during her time in college. She served as the alto section leader in Lee Singers and was the alto section leader and librarian for Lee University Chorale. Additionally, Ms. Webb was a manager for Art in the Open, a grant-funded project that brings live musical performances to various parts of campus.
“I feel honored to have been selected for the Presser Award and feel affirmed in my desire to pursue music education," said Ms. Webb. “I am thankful for all the moments when God and loved ones urged me forward when work was tedious and strenuous and in moments of accomplishment and triumph. The incredible faculty challenged me academically and spiritually, and I am sure I would not be here without their support.”
After graduation, Ms. Webb plans to begin teaching music in the classroom and eventually pursue a master’s degree.
“Gracie has been an exceptional music student in her four years at Lee,” said Dr. Randy Sheeks, associate dean of the School of Music. “She has excelled as a musician, person, and leader. She is going to be a fantastic music educator.”
Ms. Webb was recognized for this honor during the Masterworks concert in April and will receive a cash stipend as part of the Undergraduate Scholar Award.
Presser Undergraduate Scholar Awards are distributed to a number of accredited institutions throughout America. Past recipients of Lee University include David Herzog (2024), Levi Deal (2023), Lynnae Eades (2022), Mary Nerren (2021), Lauren Mills (2020), Elizabeth Clark (2019), Danae Bromley (2018), Brittany Martin (2017), Kristiana McCombs (2016), Matthew Kelly (2015), Joey Archer (2014), Erica Tipton (2013), Matthew Wilkinson (2012), Lamprini Lindeman (2011), Christopher Oglesby (2010), Sabbath Ward (2009), Rachael Skidmore (2008), Michael Land (2007), and Brooke Upton (2006).
For more information on the Presser Foundation, visit presserfoundation.org/.