Keith Kaiser, Charles A. Dana Professor of Music Education, is going into his 23rd year at Ithaca College and recognizes the historical significance of the School of Music maybe more than anyone else. That appreciation and experience makes him the ideal person to lead the school as interim dean, effective July 1. A search for a permanent dean will be conducted in the fall. Former dean Karl Paulnack announced in September that he would be stepping down at the end of the school year.
The Power of Music to Transform
By Danica Fisher ’05, June 18, 2020
Professor of music education Keith Kaiser named interim dean of the School of Music.
The Whalen Center for Music.
The Whalen Center for Music.
Keith Kaiser, Charles A. Dana Professor of Music Education.
“I am honored and humbled to be named interim dean of Ithaca College's celebrated School of Music,” Kaiser said. “I am fully committed to do my best on behalf of our students, our faculty and staff, our alumni, and all of our stakeholders.”
A distinguished teacher and scholar, Kaiser has had an illustrious career on South Hill. He served as chair of the music education department from 2003 to 2015 and as interim associate dean from 2009 to 2012. He’s also been the school’s assessment coordinator.
Kaiser began his career at Ithaca College in 1998 after completing his PhD at Florida State University.
“I truly hope that I can make a positive difference for others in as many ways as the position allows,” he said. “I envision a community of music makers and sharers who are committed to serve others by maintaining focus on the power of music to transform and to elevate self, others and community.”
Throughout his career, Kaiser has taught undergraduate and graduate music education courses, supervised junior- and senior-level student teachers, and conducted various instrumental music ensembles. In addition, as a Presser Scholar, he is active throughout the country as a clinician, adjudicator and consultant.
“I envision a community of music makers and sharers who are committed to serve others by maintaining focus on the power of music to transform and to elevate self, others and community.”
Keith Kaiser, Charles A. Dana Professor of Music Education.
“I am aware of the work that needs to be done around equity, diversity, and inclusion, as well as around COVID, around implementation of the Ithaca Forever strategic plan, and so much more,” said Kaiser. “To that end, I am extremely confident that we can continue to learn and grow in these areas, and I am very hopeful about the future, as I have such strong confidence in the exemplary individuals who comprise our community.”