Two Auburn students named to Country Music Association’s 2022 leadership program class

Public relations junior Oakley Holmes and finance sophomore David Putman have been selected for the Country Music Association’s CMA EDU Leadership Program class of 2022-2023.

CMA EDU is a highly competitive, year-long career development program that connects students with professional development opportunities, music industry professionals and alumni mentors. Each student can customize their career development plan to fit their goals and, in the summer, attend the CMA EDU Leadership Summit, a multi-day conference to connect with fellow students, network with professionals and learn more about the music industry.

Holmes participated in the CMA EDU program last year and said she looks forward to making more connections in the industry during her final year in the program.

“This achievement means so much to me because it allows me to get connected to the industry even from Auburn,” Holmes said. “The program has been incredibly insightful, and I've been able to hear from successful professionals in the music industry. Just from my past year in CMA EDU, I've learned a lot and have made wonderful friendships and connections that will carry on with me when I move to Nashville after graduation.”

Putman said he looks forward to networking in Nashville, where he also hopes to land post-graduation. He said CMA EDU’s prominent curriculum and alumni base will help him succeed for years to come.

“I'm extremely excited to take advantage of these opportunities and meet college students around the country who are just as passionate about this sector as I am,” Putman said. “In addition, I want all Auburn students to know about the growing music industry programs at Auburn University. It's extremely motivating to know that people like Oakley and I are blazing a path for future Auburn students.”

For more information about the Department of Music at Auburn University, visit here.