“Her teaching affects students’ lives through the kindness she shows,” said Josiah Sandstrom, the male lead in Dido and Aeneas. “She is always looking to help her students grow, both in music and as people.” He also mentioned how much of a role model she is, even through her tribulations of life.
Phinney has proven just how much she cares for others while still caring for herself, and it is something several students aspire to. “I showed up for the opera to set up props,” explained Sandstrom. “I walked into the proscenium and it was pitch black, but Mrs. Phinney was there playing in the dark with her stand light on. She was getting ready to perform.” Not only has Phinney made a name for herself on this campus, but her students continue to share her joy through her hard work and efforts. She has helped to make her students Stand Out.