William Davis has been recognized for a lifetime of commitment and dedication to the field of music therapy with the American Music Therapy Association Lifetime Achievement Award.The prestigious award is given to signify the recipient's primary role in the establishment and continued growth of the field of music therapy.

According to the official announcement, “The award is bestowed by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) Board of Directors on individuals to signify their having a primary role in the establishment and continued growth of the field of music therapy. This award is the most prestigious of all the awards.”

Davis, who will retire this spring after 30 years of teaching and serving as director of graduate studies, was officially recognized at the annual AMTA conference in Jacksonville, Fla. on Nov. 21, 2013. Click here for a video of the presentation.

“His discoveries in music therapy history have helped establish a better chronology of our field, allowing a greater appreciation of our achievements,” according to the presentation. Davis has authored numerous publications on music therapy history including the widely used and acclaimed Into to Music Therapy text.

“This is a well-deserved award for a faculty member who has had a tremendous impact on Colorado State University, and the field of music therapy,” said colleague Blythe LaGasse. “We know how lucky we are to have Bill on our faculty and it is great to see that his profession recognizes his achievements as well."

In March 2013, Davis was also the recipient of the 2012-13 John H. Stern Distinguished Professor Award in the College of Liberal Arts. The Stern Award honors faculty who demonstrate exemplary accomplishments in all aspects of their professional responsibilities over an extended period of time.

“Bill’s accomplishments in the field of Music Therapy, dedication to our students and our program, and outstanding service to the department have all been extraordinary over the past 30 years here at CSU," said Todd Queen, department chair. "I cannot think of anyone more deserving of these awards.”