Jamal J. Rossi, academic dean at the Eastman School of Music and an Eastman alumnus, today was named interim dean of the famed music school by Joel Seligman, president of the University of Rochester.
“In my view, Eastman is the preeminent music school in the country,” said Seligman. “I am confident that Jamal Rossi’s academic, performance, and leadership experience will contribute to continued success for Eastman, its faculty, and students.” Rossi’s appointment is effective today.
James Undercofler, the current dean at Eastman, has been selected as the next president and chief executive officer of the Philadelphia Orchestra. “Jim has served the Eastman School effectively during his tenure, and I am sure he will do equally well at the Philadelphia Orchestra,” commented Seligman. He will remain on the Eastman faculty until July.
“We will begin soon a national search. Eastman is a great school, and I am certain that we will find the kind of outstanding leader that Eastman deserves,” said Seligman.
Rossi was appointed senior associate dean for academic affairs and professor of woodwinds at Eastman a year ago after a national search. At the time, he was professor and dean of the School of Music at the University of South Carolina. Since coming to Eastman, he has worked closely with the school’s faculty and administration in matters of curriculum, faculty searches, and all aspects of academic policy.
“Since arriving at Eastman eight months ago, I have been reminded daily that this is a remarkable school of music, and I am honored to take on this new role,” said Rossi. “The excellence of the faculty, the commitment of the students, and the leadership initiatives of this school are second to none. All of us at Eastman congratulate Jim and wish him great success in his new position.”
Rossi, a native of Philadelphia, was awarded a doctor of musical arts degree from Eastman in 1987, with a major in saxophone performance and literature. He received his master’s degree from the University of Michigan in saxophone performance and literature, and his bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College in music education and saxophone performance.
Before his tenure at South Carolina, Rossi held positions as associate dean (1998-2000) and assistant dean (1989-1998) at the School of Music at Ithaca College. From 1986 to 1989, he was the chair of the department of music and theater at Northern State University in Aberdeen, S.D.
The Eastman School of Music of the University of Rochester educates talented musicians from around the world who become leaders and innovators in all fields of music. Established in 1921 by Eastman Kodak Company founder and visionary George Eastman, the School has achieved international prominence through its commitment to the highest standards of artistry, scholarship, and leadership.
About the University of Rochester
The University of Rochester (www.rochester.edu) is one of the nation’s leading private universities. Located in Rochester, N.Y., the University’s environment gives students exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary study and close collaboration with faculty. Its College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering is complemented by the Eastman School of Music, Simon School of Business, Warner School of Education, Laboratory for Laser Energetics, and Schools of Medicine and Nursing.
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