Samford’s School of the Arts has been graced with the dedication and talent of Associate Dean Kathryn Fouse for almost 20 years. Under her leadership, the Division of Music has evolved into a vibrant program. She leaves a legacy of impressive students that have trained with her. While at Samford, she pursued an active piano performance career which has taken her across the globe, including her most recent collaboration with Associate Dean Larry Thompson and their “Aural Vision” project.
According to Dean Joe Hopkins, “It comes as no surprise that Kathryn would be selected in a national search; she has been a tremendous leader at Samford for almost two decades, and her effective work and commitment to excellence could not be hidden. We are grateful for all she has given to our students and our university.”
Fouse said, “I am honored to have been chosen as the next Dean of Visual and Performing Arts at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, TX. I have loved my time at Samford and it is going to be very hard to leave, but I feel that this is the right ‘next step’ in my journey. The path to the decision to accept this position has been unusual and it has been clear to me that God’s leadership has been present throughout the process.
It is always bittersweet to move from a place that you love to embark on a new adventure. Though I will no longer be at Samford, I will forever feel connected to this place and everyone that I have known during my time here. I have had many wonderful opportunities because of Samford and it will remain a part of me wherever I go. The students here are special and will truly shape tomorrow’s world!"
She will be busy during the transition as she takes her final class to Spain and Portugal with Larry Thompson and then returns to move to her native state of Texas and take the dean position at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor College of Visual and Performing Arts.
A new leadership plan is underway for the Division of Music with faculty additions in the piano area and appointments.