Black Hills State University recognized Dr. Jonathan Nero, professor of music and choral director, as the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Faculty Award. Nero was honored for his excellence in teaching, service to the University, and active contributions to scholarship and creative endeavors. BHSU President Steve Elliott and Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs Pam Carriveau presented the award to Nero Wednesday, April 15.
Candidates for the Distinguished Faculty Award are nominated by BHSU faculty members and reviewed by the Distinguished Faculty Committee. The committee makes a recommendation to the Faculty Senate, which then recommends a final candidate to the provost.
“Jon Nero exemplifies the values of Black Hills State University through his dedication to teaching excellence, community engagement, and student-centered leadership,” said BHSU faculty members in their nomination letter. “His tireless efforts, creative vision, and compassionate mentorship have had a lasting and positive impact on our students, alumni, and the broader community.”
Nero joined Black Hills State University in 2007 as an assistant professor, was promoted to associate professor and granted tenure in 2013, and advanced to professor in 2018. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting, along with a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Science in Vocal Music Education, from North Dakota State University.
At BHSU, Nero directs multiple choral ensembles, including Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, and the Northern Hills Chamber Choral. His ensembles have performed for American Choral Directors Association conferences and alongside the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra.
One of Nero's most celebrated contributions is his creation and continued leadership of the annual BHSU Madrigal Dinner, a fully immersive production blending choral performance, theater, and historical storytelling.
Beyond the stage, Nero is deeply committed to outreach and music education. He regularly organizes clinics for hundreds of high school students across the region and has served as a clinician and guest conductor at events including the SDMEA Elementary Honor Choir and multiple state and regional music festivals. He has also served as artistic director of the Dakota Choral Union and Kantorei.
In the classroom, Nero is recognized for his commitment to student development across academic, musical, and personal dimensions. Colleagues note that he regularly supports students outside of his own courses and maintains a welcoming environment within the choral program.
Nero also serves the University through committee work, including the Promotion and Tenure Committee and is the liaison between the Music Department and the Friends of Music to coordinate fundraising. Nero is a current member of the American Choral Directors Association, Music Educators National Conference, National Collegiate Choral Association, and Chorus America.