Join VSN Peer Leader Kelley Glover for a two-part virtual workshop that blends the art of storytelling with the science of music. In this interactive series, you’ll uncover how sound impacts emotional well-being, learn practical techniques for calming the nervous system, and connect with others through shared musical experiences.
This workshop takes place across two sessions with a creative project in between.
Session 1: The Science of Sound and Your Musical Story | April 29, 7–8 PM CT
During the first session, Kelley will introduce the science of sound and guide participants through an assignment to create a personal musical autobiography. Over the following four weeks, you’ll reflect on the songs and stories that have shaped your military journey and develop your project to share with the group.
Session 2: Sharing Your Musical Autobiography | May 27, 7–8:30 PM CT
In the second session, participants will come back together to share their musical autobiographies and connect through the power of music and storytelling.
Your musical autobiography can take many forms. You might:
- Create a slideshow with images and music to tell your story
- Build a playlist that represents your journey
- Select meaningful song lyrics that help share your experiences
Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or simply curious about the therapeutic potential of sound, this workshop offers a creative and supportive space to explore wellness and connect with others.
Participants are expected to attend both sessions. During Session 1, you will receive the musical autobiography assignment and have four weeks to work on it before sharing your project in Session 2. If you’re unable to attend Session 1 live, a recording will be provided so you can still complete the assignment and participate in Session 2.
About the Speaker
Dr. Kelley T. Glover, Ph.D., is a VSN Peer Leader, Postdoctoral Fellow at the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health, and an adjunct assistant professor at the UT School of Social Work. Her research integrates educational leadership, emotional well-being in higher education, and culturally responsive, arts-based methodologies, with recent projects focusing on public health, participatory arts for older adults, and interdisciplinary approaches to mental wellness. She earned her Ph.D. in School Improvement and Educational Leadership from Texas State University, a Master of Arts from the Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Music Education from Howard University. With over three decades of experience in PK–12 education, music pedagogy, and culturally responsive teaching, Dr. Glover brings a strong focus on social-emotional learning and community engagement to higher education. She is also the founder of U BETTER Sing!, a music education technology company featured on PBS’s Blackademics.
The Hogg Foundation for Mental Health promotes communities that prioritize mental health and well-being. Believing mental health is as essential as physical health, the foundation advances this vision through research, advocacy, and community-driven initiatives, empowering communities to foster resilience and support well-being in everyday life.
What You'll Gain
- Insights into the science of sound (cymatics) and its impact on the body
- Understanding of how sound influences the vagus nerve, central nervous system, memories, and emotions
- Practical techniques to use music for calming the nervous system and supporting emotional well-being
- The opportunity to create and share your own musical autobiography
- Connection with others through shared stories and experiences
This Event is Open To
- Spouse/partner of active-duty service member/post-service veteran
- Family member/caregiver of active-duty service member/post-service veteran
- Divorcee or widow/widower of active duty service member/post-service veteran
Eligibility varies by session. View our event calendar for details on other offerings.
Take the First Step Toward Connection–Sign up Today!
Looking for one-on-one support? Peer 2 Peer Connect pairs you with a trained VSN Peer Leader for individualized support. For more resources and updates, follow @veteranspousenetwork and subscribe to the VSN Newsletter. Questions or concerns? We’re here to help at vsn@austin.utexas.edu.
