The Dean of the Conservatory will set a strategic vision for leading-edge performing arts education in the context of a diverse and vibrant urban-serving public research university. We are seeking an energetic and proven leader who can continue the Conservatory’s legacy of high quality and relevant curriculum as well as leading an internationally recognized faculty who excel in teaching, performance and scholarship.
“The new dean will play a critical role in implementing new ideas and strategies for enrollment growth, advancing diversity and inclusion and actively engaging alumni, volunteer and donor support,” said Jenny Lundgren, provost and executive vice chancellor.
“Ideal candidates will demonstrate leadership experience with proven ability to think strategically and creatively about how UMKC will continually evolve as a leader in the arts and ensure its students excel,” she added.
The person selected for this position will work closely with the provost, other senior leaders, faculty, staff and students to chart a bold and successful future for the Conservatory.
The full roster of the search committee is listed below. Others will have the opportunity to provide input during the campus interview portion of the search process. The committee aims to conclude the search during the spring 2022 semester, for a summer 2022 start date.
Other search committee members
Ken Martin, professor and chair, Theatre
Carla Noack, associate professor and past chair, Theatre
Michael Blake, assistant professor, Dance
DeeAnna Hiett, associate professor and chair of Dance; Faculty Senate
Chen Yi, professor, Music Studies
David Thurmaier, associate professor and chair, Music Studies
Jim Snell, associate dean of performance operations and chair, Music Performance
Jane Carl, professor, Music Performance
Martin Mendez Higuera, Conservatory student
Helen Perry, student services manager
Stuart Carden, artistic director, Kansas City Repertory Theatre
Suzanne Shank, UMKC trustee; past chair, Friends of the Conservatory; past chair and honorary chair, Crescendo
Tamara Morris, director of advancement, Foundation and Alumni