Tessla Michael, MM

While a student at Graceland, Tessla Michael found herself heavily involved in the music department and a variety of campus life and leadership opportunities. Michael performed with the Graceland University Symphonic Band, Orchestra, Choir and was named center snare for the Yellowjacket Drumline for three consecutive years. Upon Michael’s acceptance into SHSU she was offered the Fine Arts & Mass Communication Graduate Assistantship, and began teaching her first college courses.

Along with her studies in percussion performance, Michael was also able to dedicate significant time towards the study of composition, and social justice in music while completing her master’s degree. In November of 2019 Tessla was hired as an admissions intern at Graceland, and was eventually promoted to admissions counselor in the spring of 2021. Currently, Michael serves as an admissions counselor, focusing on Visual & Performing Arts recruitment efforts. She also teaches a variety of music courses and leads the Graceland University Percussion Group. Michael has a deep passion for mentoring and guiding young adults towards their goals, and helping them find their own personal path towards success.