The National Association of Teachers of Singing is pleased to announce the endowment of the Ellen Faull Master Teacher Fund following a successful campaign to raise $25,000 in honor of Faull’s remarkable contributions to performance and the teaching of singing.

This endowment ensures that Faull’s legacy will continue with the naming of a Master Teacher in the NATS Intern Program each year. Beginning in 2025, an Intern Program Master Teacher will be honored with the title of the Ellen Faull Master Teacher. This title supports the ongoing cultivation of exceptional voice teaching talent within the NATS community. Justin John Moniz (NYU Steinhardt) will be honored as the 2025 Ellen Faull Master Teacher.

Dr. Kari Ragan, NATS member and host of the popular NATS Chat webinars, launched a campaign in 2024 with a challenge grant of $10,000 in the hopes of inspiring Faull’s colleagues and former students to join her in reaching the campaign goal of $25,000. The Ragan family, including Kari’s sister, Daryl, have been steadfast supporters of this effort making additional gifts beyond the initial $10,000 challenge. With the support of the Ragan family and additional generous donors, the campaign goal was not only met but surpassed with a total of $26,689.00 raised.

“It is my privilege to honor my teacher of 20 years, the renowned Ellen Faull, who epitomized the legacy of great voice teaching in every sense — through her artistry, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to her students,” Ragan said.

NATS would like to thank Kari and her sister, Daryl Ragan, as well as the many generous donors who made have made this endowment possible: Kari Ragan, Kurt Alakulppi, Tiffany Baxter, Judy Bevilacqua, Bob Bryan, Abbey Carlson, Erika Chang, Timohty Keller, David Maier and Jan Powell, Angela McGann, Jordyn Palmer, Daryl Ragan, Norman Spivey

The endowed funds will not only support a Master Teacher, but the Intern Program overall — one of the most consequential NATS programs open to all members. This year, the program will be held May 20-30 at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. Learn more about the NATS Intern Program.

If you are interested in supporting the Ellen Faul Master Teacher Endowment, please visit our secure form or contact NATS Development Director Jen Jimenez at jen@nats.org.

About Ellen Faull

Ellen Faull, an esteemed American soprano and distinguished voice teacher, made significant contributions to the world of opera and vocal pedagogy throughout the 20th century. Born on October 14, 1918, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Faull’s career spanned several decades, during which she became known for her compelling performances and masterful technique.

Faull’s teaching philosophy emphasized the holistic development of a singer, focusing on technique, interpretation, and emotional connection. She mentored countless young singers, many of whom went on to have successful careers in opera houses around the world. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation of vocal talent established her as a beloved and respected figure in vocal music education.

Faull passed away on December 2, 2008, leaving behind a rich legacy as both a performer and educator. Her contributions to the arts continue to be celebrated, and her influence endures through her students and the many lives she touched on in her long and illustrious career.