Major Named Dean of College of Fine Arts

James E. Major, interim dean of the College of Fine Arts at Illinois State University since May of 2007, has been named dean of the College effective Nov. 1.   President Al Bowman made the announcement this week following the unanimous recommendation of the College of Fine Arts Council.

Major joined the Illinois State Music faculty in 1995 as director of Choral Activities and became director of the School of Music in January 2000.  He was conductor of the Madrigal Singers and artistic director of the Madrigal Dinners at Illinois State for 11 years.  Previously Major was on the Ohio State University Music faculty for 21 years, including nine years as chair of the Division of Music Education.

A native of Meredosia in western Illinois, Major received his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin, M.A. from the University of Iowa, and B.M.E. degree from Western Illinois University.  

"Dean Major has obviously earned the respect of his College of Fine Arts colleagues and the entire Illinois State community," said Vice President and Provost Sheri Noren Everts.  "His extensive work in accreditation activities for NASM and his service associated with NTT union contract negotiations are most appreciated. Dean Major has also builtimportant connections with the Bloomington/Normal community."