In addition to teaching, Van Devender has pursued a diverse assortment of positions in the music industry which he credits toward giving him a unique perspective musically, etc.

Included among these were:
*Sales position with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.
*Managing a Trans World Music Corp. tapes and cd's store in downtown Milwaukee, WI.
*Theater production at YMCA Of The Rockies in Estes Park, CO.
*Television production at KTVO in Kirksville, MO.
*Radio DJ at KBOE in Oskaloosa, IA.
*Music Director Camp Ilium Episcopal high school retreat in Telluride, CO.

2008 - Masters Degree: Music Education at VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, IL. Masters Degree completion date - Summer 2008.

1990 - Teacher Certification: Music Education at University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colorado. Van Devender also earned an induction into the Golden Key National Honor Society during this time.

1985 - BA: Music Business at Northeast Missouri State University (now named Truman University) in Kirksville, Missouri where Van Devender consistantly earned a spot on the roster of Jazz Ensemble I as Bass Trombonist. During his tenure with this group, they achieved First Place (band) at the Central States Jazz Festival in Kansas City and Third Place (band) at the Wichita Jazz Festival and performed at MMEA in 1981 & 1985. He also played in the Brass Choir (performing at MMEA in 1983), Marching Band, Concert Band, Pep Band & Orchestra. Another important piece of his college life was his induction into the Upsilon Phi Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia - the national music fraternity, where he served as Chapter Vice President for two years.

1980 - Graduation from Oskaloosa High School in Oskaloosa, Iowa where he participated in the nationally acclaimed Band Of The 70's & Band Of The 80's Marching Band (placing 2nd at Marching Bands of America Summer Nationals - 1980) as well as Concert Band, Pep Band, Jazz Band, Orchestra, Concert Choir and Show Choir. He even dabbled in drama, portraying Pedro-The Muleteer in the musical production, "Man of La Mancha." His Senior year he served as Band President.

There is currently an effort under way to form an Oskaloosa Band Alumni Association. For more info &/or to register, Click Here.