Shenandoah University named Dr. Jennifer Steele as the new dean of Shenandoah Conservatory.

Dr. Steele was selected after a competitive nationwide search and she will begin her new role on July 1st.

She brings with her nearly 20 years of experience in higher education arts programs and currently serves as the dean of the School of Visual and Performing Arts at College of the Canyons in California.

During her time at College of the Canyons, she managed the design and construction of a recording facility, launched an arts program for incarcerated youth in Los Angeles, and led the reopening of their performing arts center after COVID.

In her new role, Steele will lead a conservatory of over 650 students and 100 faculty that regularly produces over 300 performance opportunities each year.

Under her leadership, she will ensure Shenandoah Conservatory fosters excellence in teaching, artistic training, performance, scholarship and career-readiness.

Dr. Jeffrey Marlatt returns to his role of associate dean after serving as interim dean since 2023.

To view the full announcement, click here.