District 88 recognizes Willowbrook Choir Director for earning doctoral degree

During its May 18 meeting, the District 88 Board of Education, along with the administration, recognized and celebrated Willowbrook Choir Director Belford Hernandez for earning his doctoral degree.

• To watch the presentation, click on the video above.
  
  
• To view photos from the event, see the images below.

Dr. Hernandez earned his doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction on March 19 from Concordia University Chicago after successfully defending his dissertation, titled “Stories from Music Education Students: A Narrative Inquiry about their Career Choice.” He earned his bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Colombia Adventist University Corporation in 1996 and his master’s degree in Choral Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in 2004.

Dr. Hernandez joined Willowbrook during the 2024-25 school year and teaches choir, piano and music production. He also directs the Concert Choir at Benedictine University, leads the Cantores Community Choir and serves as Music Director at Hinsdale United Methodist Church.

Throughout his career, Dr. Hernandez has conducted concerts; performed as a chamber and soloist pianist; released musical productions; accompanied professional vocalists and ensembles; mentored student musicians; and participated in regional and national music education events and conferences.

During the May 18 meeting, the board presented Dr. Hernandez with an engraved clock in honor of his dedication and commitment to enhancing the educational environment for the students, staff and learning community of District 88.