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Passing of the baton: Sophie Roland takes over as Acting Dean from Michael Kim
via Don Wright Faculty of Music
Official passing of the baton! While figurative, the loan of Simone Luti's baton made it literal as well... Even if just for a photographic moment.
June 30 marked our official farewell to Dean Michael Kim who has served as Dean at the Don Wright Faculty of Music since August 2021. Over the past five years, Michael Kim has provided strong leadership, teaching excellence as a professor, an optimistic view for the future of the Faculty and kind, thoughtful guidance to the community of students, faculty, and staff who call it home. We are thankful for the many ways he contributed to the vibrancy of Western Music throughout his time with us.
In Michael's words, "I will continue to cheer for your successes, celebrate your achievements, and take pride in all that this community accomplishes in the years ahead. Thank you for welcoming me into your lives, for your trust, your partnership, your friendship, and your shared commitment to excellence. Thank you for allowing me to be part of the Don Wright Faculty of Music's story."
We extend our very best wishes to Michael Kim as he embarks on a new appointment as Dean of the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University.
As the baton is passed, we formally welcome Sophie Roland to the role of Acting Dean of the Don Wright Faculty of Music for a two-year term starting July 1, 2026. Sophie Roland is no stranger to the Faculty of Music serving as a professor for over 20 years and with over a decade of experience in senior administrative roles, including Chair of Music Performance Studies and Acting Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs and Admissions.
At the heart of it all is a shared belief in creativity and connection. As Sophie Roland reflects, "What makes this Faculty special is not simply the quality of its programs or the accomplishments of its graduates. It is the people. Our faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, and friends share a deep belief in the importance of music, creativity, learning, and human connection. That shared commitment gives me great confidence in the future."
We look forward to an exciting new chapter in our Faculty's history with Sophie Roland at the helm.