08/28/14

The Department of Music and Theatre at Fort Hays State University was granted reaccreditation in July by the National Association of Schools of Music.

"The process involves a lot of investigation, data gathering and conversations amongst colleagues," said Benjamin Cline, chair of the Department of Music and Theatre.

"Those conversations are one of the most valuable parts of the process, because it allows us to look at the department through the eyes of the association, and by doing so we learn things about ourselves that ultimately make us a better department," he said.

"It's also a real boon to say that we've been reaccredited, because it means that the work we are doing here meets national standards and that our students are well-trained."

Music at FHSU began in 1912, was first accredited in 1944 and has retained accreditation ever since. The National Association of Schools of Music was founded in 1924 and is comprised of nearly 650 music programs throughout the United States. Accredited programs are reviewed every 10 years by NASM through an extensive process, which includes a self-study, a site visit by trained musicians who are part of the accreditation team and a formal review by the association.

"I'm pleased but not surprised by the reaccreditation," said Dr. Paul Faber, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

"The music faculty are dedicated and thoughtful teachers and gifted artists, and our students show an unusual degree of commitment to performance, technology, composition and music education," he said. "I am happy to see their success is recognized by our peers in NASM."

"As the recent NASM action affirms, Fort Hays State University continues to benefit from an outstanding faculty with deep commitment to personalized student learning," said Dr. Chris Crawford, interim provost at FHSU. "This mark of affirmation really just confirms that the educational models we've applied make the difference in preparing students for careers in music."

The Department of Music and Theatre has recently seen improvements to its facilities in Malloy Hall. Renovations to Felten-Start Theatre were completed during the summer, including new lighting, seating and technical systems. Technology for Malloy Hall classrooms, rehearsal halls and applied studios has also been upgraded to give the department the tools needed to teach in the 21st century.

"We are very proud of the work we have accomplished at FHSU, and we look forward to working with our students and supporters," said Cline. "We are dedicated to the best in undergraduate education in the performing arts, and our students leave with training and experiences that make them ready for the world ahead."