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The xxxx��Ƶ is pleased to announce Judy Iwata Bundra, PhD as the new Chief Academic Officer and Dean of the Conservatory following a national search. Dr. Bundra will begin her tenure July 17, 2017.

“I am thrilled that Dr. Bundra has accepted the invitation to become xxxx��Ƶ’s first-ever Chief Academic Officer and Conservatory Dean," said xxxx��Ƶ President and CEO Paul W. Hogle.  "Dr. Bundra’s extensive firsthand experience with educational trends in a highly competitive school of music, her development and administration of curriculum and her proven track record leading instructional evaluation procedures were all key factors in her appointment. Throughout the interview process, Dr. Bundra demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the history, place and potential of xxxx��Ƶ.”

As a key member of the DePaul University School of Music administrative team, Dr. Bundra was most recently Interim Dean. During her nearly 30 years at the school, she also served as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Chair of the Music Education Department and has been a member of the faculty since 1987. In her various positions, Dr. Bundra played a vital role in the growth and success of the School of Music.  As chief academic officer, she refined the curriculum, oversaw faculty development and student life, and edited accreditation reports at state, regional and national levels.  As interim dean, Dr. Bundra advocated and raised funds for student scholarships and DePaul School of Music’s new $100 million facility.  In June she will receive the Via Sapientiae Award for her years of dedicated service to the School and to the University, which is the highest honor the University can bestow on one of its own.

Dr. Bundra holds a PhD in Music Education from Northwestern University where she also studied piano. She is recognized nationally for her work in curriculum and assessment, music listening and arts integration, having published and presented at music and education conferences throughout the country.  Dr. Bundra helped to write the Illinois Standards for the Fine Arts and design creative assessment tools for K-12 students in Illinois.  Her current research explores the importance of student wellness in music schools, as well as the role of women in music higher education administration.

Most recently, Dr. Bundra has assumed leadership positions within the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) and currently serves as Chair of the Nominating Committee.  For over 25 years, she collaborated closely with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s community and education outreach programs. She was selected as Vice-Chair of the Negaunee Institute of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and currently serves as the Chair of the Program and Evaluation Committee.  She also works as a consultant for the Grant Park Orchestra Association’s community outreach efforts, including the Classical Campers and Project Inclusion programs.

“I am truly honored to become part of the xxxx��Ƶ conservatory community. xxxx��Ƶ is among the elite music programs in the country, known throughout the world for its outstanding faculty, staff, alumni and students.  Drawing upon my extensive understanding of music teaching and learning, I look forward to leading the academic growth of xxxx��Ƶ and working together with President Hogle, the administration and faculty colleagues to create the finest educational experience for our students,” Dr. Bundra said.

For additional news on this announcement, please see the press release.