Rod is a native of Springfield, Ohio, and life-long music professional and educator with additional ties to Heidelberg. After earning his Bachelor of Music Education from The Ohio State University and his Master of Music degree from Cleveland State, he had a 34-year career teaching and directing bands. Most recently, he worked as the band director at Port Clinton City Schools. Throughout his career, he was twice nominated for "Music Educator of the Year" Grammy awards. He has conducted professional bands across the country, including The Marine Band at Quantico. Rod is currently the Director of Bands & Instructor of Instrumental Music Education at Heidelberg University.