Student enjoys a blessed Grammy win

Last Sunday, Drew University witnessed both the anticipation and achievement of Reverend Stefanie Minatee (T ’07, ’10) and her choir Jubilation’s contribution to the Grammy-winning album, “Oh Happy Day.”
Their story of success begs the question—what happens after you win?
The day after returning from Los Angeles, Minatee was undeniably optimistic. “I’m still on a whirlwind from my trip to L.A.” Minatee said. “The entire show was fantastic.”
Minatee’s current success is connected to her lifelong passion for music and ministry. “In terms of the ministry, I was really called to preach, to share the gospel with people.”
Minatee mentions her grandmother as an inspiration and a voice that compelled her to walk with dignity. “I grew up in a family who always put God first. [Ministry] is my calling, it’s my life… to speak to the hearts and minds of young people.”
According to Minatee, her true love of music opened doors to multiple career opportunities as well as her success with Jubilation.
“I knew in 8th grade I was going to be a music teacher,” Minatee said. “I thank God for the ability I have.”
In relation to how the Grammy could change Minatee’s life, she said, “it already has. My phone has been ringing off the hook. My Facebook page is flooded.”
Jubilation has found great success under Minatee’s direction. With several CDs released and the continuing support of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, contributing to a Grammy-winning album seems logical.
Still, Minatee makes no assumptions when it comes to Jubilation’s future. “I don’t know,” Minatee said. “I don’t know what’s going to happen down the road, but I want to guide them musically and spiritually.”
Minatee also expressed gratitude toward Drew University.
“I thank my Drew community for being so supportive and I am proud to be a graduate. I especially thank all of my professors and colleagues,” she said.
In the immediate future, Minatee will soon be leaving for Miami with Dana Owens—Queen Latifah—to sing at the Super Bowl.
Her experience with Jubilation, Drew and Queen Latifah have all lead to a very important lesson.
“I learned from [the Grammy experience] to listen to what God has to say,” Minatee said. “I was called to show people a light in this dark world.”
If Minatee’s achievements are any indication, she will certainly continue to bring “light” to everyone around her.
Jubilation is set to release a new album later in the year through Baltimore-based Habakkuk Records.
For more information about Jubilation, visit jubilationinc.com.