Musically gifted in instrument and voice, Sarah (Wiley ’05) Tietsort has been named Bethel’s Outstanding Young Alum. She is currently one of the Sea Chanters for the United States Navy Band. Tietsort has sung at multiple national events, including President Obama’s inauguration in 2009. Her path leading to this point started back at Clay High School in South Bend, Ind., where she participated in athletics, numerous theater productions, concert choir, swing choir and band. She received the John Phillip Sousa Award for Outstanding Music Student.

It was no surprise then when Tietsort began attending Bethel College in 2001 that she continued to be active in the music and theater departments. She was active in Concert Choir, Voices of Triumph, the Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble. She received second place for Senior Women’s Division for NATS (Mid-West Regional) and the Outstanding Music Student Award. Additionally, throughout 2000 and 2004, she was involved with the South Bend Civic Theater and starred in many of their productions.

After graduating from Bethel in 2005, Tietsort taught music through the South Bend Community School system. She went on to work toward a master’s degree in vocal performance at Belmont University in Tennessee where she also received a scholarship with the Nashville Opera Association. During her time at Belmont she performed in various productions and received awards including the President’s Award for being an outstanding music student.

Tietsort graduated from Belmont University in 2008 and then found herself at Navy Boot Camp as a member of the United States Navy Band Sea Chanters. As a Sea Chanter she has starred as a featured soloist for national tours, protocol gigs, public concerts and a summer concert series at the Navy Memorial.

An active member in her church at Faith Lutheran Church in Arlington, Va., Tietsort serves as the soprano section leader for the choir. In her free time she can be found watching movies, reading, running, doing yoga, Pilates, knitting and cooking, and is presently pursuing a Personal Trainer Certificate through the Aerobics & Fitness Association of America.

Currently, Tietsort resides in Arlington, Va., with her husband, Casey, and stepdaughter, Elizabeth (Ellie).

Come back to campus for the award recognition chapel and luncheon during Alumni Weekend Nov. 19 & 20.