Dr. Scott E. Woodard has been named Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities at West Virginia State University (WVSU).
“Dr. Woodard is a long established champion of access and opportunity for our students and I look forward to where his visionary leadership will take current and future Yellow Jackets as they pursue their passion for the arts and humanities,” said WVSU President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
“After a robust national search, I am proud to say the talent and expertise needed to lead the students, faculty and staff in the University’s College of Arts and Humanities was found within our very own State family,” said Dr. Kumara Jaysuriya, WVSU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Woodard has been with the University since 2006 and has served as Interim Dean of the College since August 2013. In his role as Dean, he will serve as the chief academic officer of the College, overseeing five academic departments and one graduate program.
“I am honored to have been named Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities at West Virginia State University,” Woodard said. “It is my great privilege to follow in the path set by previous Deans to advance the mission of the College in particular, and the University in general, working towards growth in recruitment, retention and opportunity for our students. I am delighted to be afforded the opportunity to continue to lead our wonderful faculty of scholars, artists and performers.”
Prior to his appointment, Woodard served as Chair of the Department of Music at WVSU, while also serving as Director of Bands and Instrumental Music, overseeing the University’s band and orchestra programs.
During his time at the University, he has helped bring an international conducting workshop to Institute that each summer brings students and conductors from around the world to campus. He also serves as an instructor at the workshop, teaching the conducting methods developed by Professor Ilya Musin.
In addition to his work at WVSU, since 2013 Woodard has also served as a Cover Conductor with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra.
Prior to coming to WVSU, Woodard served for 16 years as the Director of Bands at Winfield High School. He also formerly worked as Director of Bands at Ceredo-Kenova High School and Middle School and Wirt County Jr./Sr. High School.
Woodard earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Music Education from Marshall University. He earned his Doctorate of Musical Arts in Music Education from Boston University.
