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Denise Pearson still in education years after retirement

Photos submitted to the Times Observer Pictured is Denny Pearson.

This article is part of the “Meet Your Neighbor Monday” series, highlighting the stories of individuals who make Warren County a special place to live. If you have a suggestion for a person to profile, email mkeller@timesobserver.com

Today, we get to meet Denise “Denny” Pearson.

Though she wasn’t born in Warren, Denise “Denny” Pearson has spent over four decades building a life, a family, and a legacy deeply rooted in the community. Since moving to the area in June 1981 after marrying Warren native Jim Pearson, Denny has become a beloved figure in the local arts and education scene.

A retired music teacher from the Warren County School District, Denny spent 20 years sharing her passion for music with young learners. To this day, she cherishes the moments when she runs into former students around town.

“It gives me great joy to see former students when I’m out and about!” she says.

Pictured is Denny Pearson and some students during Summer Music School.

Retirement from the classroom hasn’t meant slowing down. In fact, Denny now channels her time and energy into leading the Warren County Summer Music School as its Director–a role she considers both an honor and a joy. She is proud to carry forward a legacy started 36 years ago by Ann Mead, Mimi Levinson, and Daniel Harpster.

Each June, Denny helps oversee a dynamic, three-week program that serves around 150 students, supported by 20 teachers, 19 interns, and several volunteers.

Alongside dedicated colleagues Michelle Belleau and Pam Nasman, Denny ensures that the days are filled with music, dance, theater, and visual arts.

“It’s a fabulous atmosphere in which to work and collaborate,” she says. “After months of planning, I happily help with whatever needs to happen to make things go smoothly.”

Outside of the summer season, Denny stays busy managing grant applications, organizing events like the Promising Young Composers Competition, and coordinating concerts for local middle school students. She is especially grateful for the support of the WCSD, Community Foundation of Warren County, Kay Hardesty Logan Foundation, Philomel, and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts for helping make it all possible.

Pictured is Denny Pearson and some colleagues during Summer Music School

Even in retirement, Denny hasn’t fully stepped away from teaching. She continues to work with private students and directs the handbell choir at First Lutheran Church. A flutist for over 60 years, she recently received a solid silver flute, which she plays for church and Philomel, Warren’s local music club.

Denny’s retirement has also allowed her to deepen her community involvement. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Warren Public Library, volunteers as a proctor at the Crary Art Museum, and participates in the Be Well Collaborative. She’s contributed her talents to the Warren Players as a vocal director and enjoys helping out in the kitchen at church–where her love of cooking and baking shines.

One of her first retirement adventures? Joining a book club–a natural fit for someone who treasures reading and lifelong learning.

When asked about the biggest milestone in her life, Denny reflects with warmth and humility.

“I can’t name just one,” she says. “I’m so thankful for my husband and family, friends, church, good neighbors, and a career in music education that has introduced me to so many wonderful people and allowed me to experience much beautiful music–as a teacher, singer, flutist, and conductor.”

Pictured is Denny Pearson

From guiding young musicians to giving back through volunteer work, Denise Pearson’s life is a symphony of service, creativity, and heartfelt community connection–proof that passion doesn’t retire, it simply evolves.

Starting at $3.50/week.

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