ROCHESTER, NY — Dr. Donna Brink Fox, Eisenhart Professor of Music Education at the Eastman School of Music, has been appointed acting dean of academic affairs at the School. The one-year appointment begins July 1, 2004.
An acclaimed music educator — as well as a highly respected musician, scholar, and administrator — Fox will serve as Eastman’s chief academic officer while the search for a permanent academic dean takes place. She will work closely with the School’s faculty and administration in areas such as curriculum, academic policy, student advisement, and admissions.
A member of Eastman’s faculty since 1984, Fox chaired the School’s music education department from 1992-2001 and directed its Summer Session from 1997-2000. In 1998, she became the first Eastman faculty member to hold a named professorship. In addition, she is the recipient of several honors and awards from Eastman and elsewhere, including the Eisenhart Award for Excellence in Teaching (1996), the Ohio University Outstanding Alumni Award (1994), and inclusion in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers (2002). In 1985, she created and has since directed Eastman’s nationally recognized early childhood music program called MusicTIME, offered through the Eastman Community Music School (formerly the Community Education Division).
“Donna Fox is a musical leader, whose contributions to Eastman are many,” said James Undercofler, director and dean of the Eastman School. “I have no doubt that she will do an outstanding job in this important position.”
Fox, who received her bachelor’s degree from Calvin College (MI), master’s degree from Ohio University, and doctoral degree from Ohio State University, is an international specialist on early childhood music. She has presented workshops and clinics throughout the U.S. and Australia, published numerous papers and articles on music education for young children, co-authored the computer software package TONEY Listens to Music, and has contributed to other publications such as the Orff Echo, Music Educators Journal, and Early Childhood Connections. Closer to home, Fox has been recognized locally for her efforts in “bridging the gap” between university faculty who prepare future music teachers and school music teachers serving in the classroom. In March, the Monroe County School Music Association presented her with its Richard H. Snook Memorial Award, given in recognition of her work with young children and in the preparation of music teachers.
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Note to editors: Dr. Fox is a longtime resident of Pittsford, who recently moved to Victor. An electronic photo is available upon request.