Dr. Betsy McCann (‘99) is the Assistant Director of Bands and Director of Marching and Athletic Bands at the University of Minnesota. She leads the acclaimed “Pride of Minnesota” Marching Band, conducts the University Band, teaches undergraduate conducting and oversees the university’s athletic bands. McCann was the first woman to lead a Big Ten Athletic Bands program, guiding the University of Minnesota Marching Band through high-profile performances including the Super Bowl LII Halftime Show, the World Expo 2020 in Dubai and the memorial service for former Vice President Walter Mondale.

At Eden Prairie High School, McCann was co-captain of the cross country team, a National Merit Scholar and an active member of orchestra, band and choir. She was the recipient of Eden Prairie High School’s Arts Leadership Award for 1997-98 and a AAA Award winner. McCann credits her formative years in Eden Prairie with shaping her love of music and leadership. 

After teaching at high schools in Minnesota and Illinois, she returned to the University of Minnesota, where she has not only elevated the marching band’s national profile but also expanded its local outreach — strengthening ties with schools across Minnesota. She frequently visits Eden Prairie High School as a keynote speaker and actively recruits Eden Prairie students to the University of Minnesota’s music programs.

McCann earned a bachelor’s degree in Flute Performance and Music Education from the University of Minnesota, a master’s degree in Wind Band Conducting from Northwestern University and a doctorate degree from the University of Minnesota. She is also a nationally recognized advocate for women in music education and speaks internationally about wellbeing for organizations seeking to strengthen leadership culture.

In addition to her leadership in music education, McCann is co-owner and board chair of TC Farm, a sustainable Minnesota-based food company she runs with her husband, Jack (‘96). 

Photo Credit: Heather Hanson Photography LLC