Katelyn Vanlanen of Voluntown was awarded The Sister Davidica Kildea Medal for Excellence in Voice at Marywood University’s 2022 Commencement Ceremony. This medal was founded in memory of Sister M. Davidica Kildea, IHM, by the Kildea Family.

The daughter of Tammy and Lloyd Vanlanen, she graduated from Norwich Free Academy and received a bachelor of music degree in music therapy from Marywood University.

While a student at Marywood, Ms. Vanlanen was a part of the Marywood Chamber Singers; participated in various vocal masterclasses, including Opera Workshop; acted in Marywood’s production of “Merrily We Roll Along”; was involved with the Tutti Ensemble, an adaptive program encouraging the use of music for individuals with unique learning styles; and served on the executive board of the Music Therapy Club as its president.

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