Jim Cunningham; HOF 2025

Our 2025 Hall of Fame inductee is a….

Graduate of

  • Central Methodist College
  • Southwest Missouri State University

Their Teaching Career began in….

  • Albany, MO and then to
  • Salem, MO and then to
  • Lebanon, MO and finally to
  • Wentzville, MO

Notable Achievements and Honors

  • Our 2025 inductee taught for 43 years.
  • Their ensembles performed three times at the MMEA conference.

Service —

Our inductee has held Numerous leadership and service positions in major organizations:

  • MSHSAA festival manager
  • President MBA
  • Chauffeur for the all-state conductor for many years.

Reflections from Colleagues

From Marvin Manring
Wherever Jim served as director, his bands have carried on the traditions of the classic concert band with a healthy mix of contemporary sounds, strong jazz programs, and also innovative, exciting marching bands. The level of excellence in every program they served is an outstanding example of “building better bands.”

From Jacob England
Jim is fiercely dedicated to all of his students and inspires them to put forth their best effort. His passion for music and excellence is contagious. Most importantly, he loves his students and while expecting the students best effort, Jim always gives the students his best effort as well.

And now, it is my pleasure to present our 2025 MBA Hall of Fame winner, Mr. Jim Cunningham.