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Theo Hummer Returns to MSMS After 30 Years

Theo Hummer inspiring the next generation of artists at MSMS.

News Summary

Columbus, Mississippi, celebrates the return of local graduate Theo Hummer, who has come back to teach poetry and music at the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science after nearly three decades away. Hummer’s inspiring journey took her from MSMS to prestigious universities and unique teaching experiences around the world, ultimately leading her back to her roots. Now, she shares her passion for the arts with a new generation of students, contributing to the school’s vibrant creative community.

Columbus Welcomes Back MSMS Graduate Theo Hummer After 30-Year Hiatus

Columbus, Mississippi, is buzzing with excitement as local resident _Theo Hummer_ has returned to her roots, teaching poetry and music at the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science (MSMS). After spending nearly three decades away, Hummer’s comeback is stirring up nostalgia and pride within the community!

From Meridian to the World

The journey for Theo began in Meridian, where she was once an eager MSMS student. After graduating, she set off to the West Coast to pursue higher education, snagging a degree from the prestigious University of California, Berkeley. She didn’t stop there—she pushed forward to earn a doctorate in poetics from Cornell University! With such impressive credentials, it seemed like she was destined to conquer the world.

But, like many of us, life took her on unexpected adventures. Hummer initially thought she wouldn’t return to Mississippi—however, the world had different plans. Following the challenges of the Great Recession, which made it tricky to find consistent teaching jobs, she found herself journeying through a tapestry of teaching gigs across the United States. One interesting chapter of her life included teaching English abroad in the small town of Hodonin, Czech Republic, where she actually instructed managers and engineers at a cigarette factory. Talk about an *unconventional* classroom setting!

European Dreams and North American Realities

Theo explored beautiful cities in Europe, covering hot spots like Munich, Prague, and Venice. While it sounds dreamy, her time in the Czech Republic didn’t quite live up to her expectations. So, she took a brave step and returned to North America, where she began teaching gifted children at the Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan. It was here that she really found her calling, drawing inspiration from her enriching time at MSMS.

A New Chapter Unfolds

Hummer eventually moved to Canada after her boyfriend popped the question, but she didn’t let that stop her from commuting to Michigan for teaching positions at Detroit’s College for Creative Studies. As Hummer navigated life, she also worked as a ghostwriter, penning everything from novels to memoirs, while helping new immigrants with their citizenship qualifications. Diving into Ontario’s publishing scene, she became a bookseller and freelance editor. Yet, she craved new opportunities, leading her back to where it all began.

Back to MSMS: A Dream Realized

In 2022, Theo Hummer returned to MSMS, filling the spot of several former teachers who had left. To her delight, she found mentor and music teacher _Dawn Barham_ still there, who encouraged her to pick up the cello to enrich the school’s music program. Although Hummer’s background is primarily in viola and guitar, she jumped at the chance to expand her musical skills.

Now, she dazzles the MSMS chamber group with her viola, violin, and brilliant cello performance, while also singing with the MSMS Singers. That’s not all—she recently graced the stage in the Golden Triangle Regional Theater’s production of “Oklahoma!” and contributed her voice to the Columbus Girlchoir. It seems Hummer is not just teaching the arts but living them to the fullest!

Creating Magic in the Classroom

All in all, Hummer describes her teaching experience at MSMS as nothing short of _magical_. With a unique and supportive environment, she focuses on nurturing a love for learning and creativity within her students. The connection she’s forged with both students and colleagues bolsters her sense of purpose and fulfillment in her role as an educator.

A Gratifying Homecoming

As Theo reflects on her incredible journey back to Mississippi, she’s filled with gratitude. This adventure illustrates not just a return to her alma mater, but a heartfelt commitment to shaping the next generation of creative minds. Columbus has truly rolled out the welcome mat for its returning star!