Tutt named associate dean

Kevin Tutt, Music and Dance Department assistant chair, has been named associate dean for curriculum, pedagogy and academic opportunity of Grand Valley's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Tutt is currently also serving as a professor in the Department of Music and Dance where he conducts the Symphonic Wind Ensemble and teaches conducting. Since August, Tutt has been serving CLAS as interim assistant dean of strategic planning, assessment, outreach and community engagement.

"As you might expect from a professor of music who is focused on conducting, Kevin is both very organized and very much inclined to bring out the best in everyone," said Fred Antczak, CLAS dean. "His energy, optimism and collaborative spirit will fit the demands of the job, and the needs of our students for a world class education in the liberal arts and sciences."

In his new role beginning in January, Tutt will be responsible for administration of CLAS curricula and development of educational policy, as well as promotion of academic opportunities ranging from student research, internships, and service learning to accommodations of student learning needs. Tutt will also oversee the CLAS Academic Advising Center and Student Success Collaborative.

"As a former public school teacher, students, curriculum and teaching are closest to my heart," Tutt said. "This position allows me to engage with all three areas for the betterment of thousands of students and faculty."

For the winter 2016 semester, Tutt will continue conducting the Symphonic Wind Ensemble and teaching advanced conducting.

Prior to his time at Grand Valley, Tutt held teaching positions at Brandon University, Penn State University, Bucknell University and the Central Dauphin School District in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. During his professional career, Tutt has served as a guest conductor, clinician and also consults for all levels of ensembles and public school programs in the U.S. and Canada.