Dr. Christopher Jenkins has been named the new dean of Lawrence University’s Conservatory of Music, the university announced in a press release Thursday.
In this role, Jenkins will oversee all aspects of Lawrence’s music degree programs and contribute significantly to the university’s academic mission, and will report directly to the provost, Lawrence’s chief academic officer.
“We are delighted to welcome Chris to Lawrence,” Provost and Dean of Faculty Peter Blitstein said in a statement. “Chris is deeply qualified to lead the Conservatory. His vision and expertise will enrich the experiences of our students, faculty, and the broader community.”
Jenkins, who will begin his duties on July 1, comes to Lawrence from Oberlin College and Conservatory, where he served as associate dean for academic support since 2014. During this period, he also actively pursued his own academic and artistic development, earning a Doctor of Musical Arts in viola performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music and a Ph.D. in musicology from Case Western Reserve University.
An accomplished violist, Jenkins has performed with prestigious ensembles such as the New York Philharmonic and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. He has also performed in Broadway productions like Les Misérables and The Lion King.
“It’s clear that the Lawrence Conservatory is a very special place, not just because of the strength of its values, but also because it combines innovative degree programs with world-class instruction,” Jenkins said in a statement. “I believe that everyone should know about Lawrence, and I look forward to working with students, faculty, and staff in continuing to expand awareness of the impactful and inspired work happening on campus and in the community.”
Jenkins was selected following a nationwide search. The search committee, led by Conservatory faculty members Samantha George and Sara Gross Ceballos, praised his wide-ranging experience.
“Chris draws from many experiences to speak authentically to faculty, students, staff, alumni, and leadership,” George, associate professor of music and teacher of violin, said in a statement. “His work is values-driven, and his support of creativity, openness, and diverse modes of musical excellence will resonate with our campus community.”
Ceballos, associate professor of music, noted that Jenkins’ innovative ideas for moving the Conservatory forward were particularly appealing. “The search committee was impressed with Chris’ intellect, engagement, and insight,” Ceballos said in a statement. “He demonstrates an enthusiastic interest in our community and offers exciting ideas about the future of the Conservatory.”
“Chris’ extensive experience in performance, scholarship, and administration, combined with his deep understanding of the unique role that a college-conservatory partnership plays, will be invaluable as we continue to build on the rich legacy of Lawrence and the Conservatory,” President Laurie Carter said in a statement. Jenkins will serve as a member of Lawrence University President’s Cabinet.
Jenkins joins Lawrence University during the Conservatory of Music’s 150th year. The Conservatory offers more than 25 areas of study, three degree options, and is home to 360 students.
Jenkins succeeds Brian Pertl, who led the Conservatory for 17 years and recently accepted a position as Director at the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music.
