Message from Ellie Hisama, Dean and Professor of Music

Dear colleagues and students,

I write to share with you my decision to conclude my appointment as Dean of the Faculty of Music on December 31, 2024 and to join the faculty.

This decision has been extremely difficult to make, but it is a necessary one for reasons of family, which I must prioritize at this juncture.

It has been the honour of a lifetime to serve as Dean of the Faculty of Music. I have enjoyed working with students, librarians, staff, and faculty enormously and appreciate your generosity, kindness, and warmth throughout the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, our climate and culture review, and times of crisis and calm.

The brilliant performances by students, faculty, and guest artists I’ve had the privilege of hearing at the Faculty will remain with me, and the exciting research activity of our students and colleagues has been equally thrilling to experience.

I’m grateful to Acting Dean Ryan McClelland, the Senior Leadership Group, and the incredible staff at the Faculty for their supremely dedicated work. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to work with Provost Young, the Office of the Provost, and President Gertler. I offer a special thanks to the superb Dean’s Office staff. Last, I thank our students for their enthusiastic ideas for improvements, devotion to their education and growth as musicians and researchers, and steadfast commitment to building community.

Wishing you and yours a peaceful holiday and great year ahead ~

Ellie Hisama
Dean and Professor of Music