After an incredible career spanning over 30 years in music education and fine arts administration in Texas public schools, Kathy Kuddes is embracing retirement with energy, passion, and purpose. Just two and a half years into this new chapter, she is proving that retirement is an opportunity to focus on health, creativity, adventure, and lifelong learning.

Here’s how Kathy is making the most of this exciting stage of life:

🎵 Prioritizing Health & Strength – Committed to feeling her best, Kathy joined a training gym near her home and now works out 3-4 times a week. The results? More energy, greater strength, and a renewed sense of well-being.

🎶 Rediscovering Performance – Kathy has returned to performing, joining two women’s choruses that bring joy to residents in nursing homes and memory care facilities. She’s also reconnecting with her flute, playing periodically in a church orchestra.

✈️ Exploring the World – From long road trips to a cruise in September and plans to celebrate her 40th anniversary in Hawaii in 2026, Kathy is making travel a priority and embracing new adventures.

📜 Researching & Writing – With a passion for folk music, Kathy is writing a column on the history of folk songs for the Kodály Educators of Texas newsletter, has been published in the International Kodály Society journal, and is already planning her next historical research project.

🍎 Teaching & Mentoring – Kathy continues to inspire the next generation of educators by teaching folk song research in two summer programs, a role she deeply loves.

Kathy Kuddes exemplifies what it means to retire boldly—staying active, creative, and engaged in the things that bring her joy. Her journey is a testament to the fact that retirement isn’t about slowing down—it’s about stepping into a vibrant and fulfilling new phase of life.