Howard Payne University’s Dr. Richard Fiese, dean of the School of Music and Fine Arts, recently presented two scholarly papers during lectures at the annual South Central Regional Conference of the College Music Society. The conference was held this year at the Lamar D. Fain College of Fine Arts on the campus of Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls.

Dr. Fiese presented his papers, titled “Creativity and the Uncertain Future” and “Developing the Leader in You,” at the three-day conference at which attendees gathered to discuss the changing landscape of music in higher education. The theme of this year’s meeting was “Transformation” and presentations were given by representatives of 28 colleges and universities across the country.

“While HPU has no requirements for faculty members to conduct scholarly research, it is vitally important that we model for our students the habits of and commitment to learning and sharing of knowledge,” said Dr. Fiese. “The process of scholarship nurtures professional relationships with our peers at other institutions and within other disciplines which ultimately enhances our abilities to teach the students in our classes.”

Also, this month, the Texas Association of Music Schools named Dr. Fiese to a three-year term as chair of the Commission of Music in General Education.

“HPU is blessed by extraordinary faculty members who demonstrate their professional competence in the classroom and through research,” said Dr. Mark Tew, provost and chief academic officer. “I am delighted that Dr. Fiese has chosen to fulfill his calling here. Our students are the beneficiaries of his extensive talent and leadership ability.”

For more information, contact HPU’s School of Music and Fine Arts at 325-649-8500.