Dr. Frances Moss taught at Calhoun Community College from 1962 until her retirement in 1999. She received her bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville State College and her master’s and doctorate from the University of Alabama. She also holds a doctorate from Covington Theological Seminary. Dr. Moss taught band and choir in public schools from grades 1-12. At Calhoun, she taught voice, piano, music theory, conducting and vocal ensembles, served as chairperson of the music department, and initiated the church music program. She founded the Alabama Honor Choir Festival, which was held at Calhoun Community College for 23 years.

The Alabama Vocal Association acquired its name while Dr. Moss was its president. During that time, the AVA instituted its first auditioned All-State Chorus, implemented required sight reading at both district and state choral festivals, gave the first medals to members of the All-State Chorus and established provision of certificates for choirs participating in state competition festivals. Dr. Moss edited the first AVA handbook, and wrote the handbooks for district chairmen and choral adjudication. During her tenure as president of AMEA, the first state convention was inaugurated. Dr. Moss served as interim editor of the Ala Breve. She served many years as historian, preparing materials for state and divisional projects. Dr. Moss served on the board of the Southern Division and on several national committees, including a task force to develop goals and objectives for the improvement of music education in the United States.

Professional memberships include Pi Kappa Lambda, Kappa Delta Pi, Delta Omicron and MENC. Awards from Calhoun Community College include Outstanding Faculty Member Award, External Service to the Community Award, and the Carlton Kelley Teaching Excellence Award. Austinville United Methodist Church annually presents a music scholarship in her honor. The AVA annual “Frances P. Moss Outstanding Choral Director Award” is given in her honor. In 1999, Dr. Moss retired from full-time teaching to serve as Minister of Music and Laity at Austinville United Methodist Church (Decatur).