Aaron Dworkin
Aaron Dworkin, an accomplished violinist recognized internationally for his leadership and advocacy of diversity in the performing arts, will become the first African-American dean of the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, the school announced Thursday.
Dworkin is the founder and president of the Sphinx Organization, a leading national nonprofit based in Detroit, according to a university press release. Sphinx was established to increase diversity in the arts through a variety of programs
. His wife, Afa Sadykhly Dworkin, Sphinx’s executive and artistic director, will become president of that organization, the Detroit News reports.
Dworkin is no stranger to U-M. He has both Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in violin performance from the school.
Martha Pollack, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, described Dworkin as a "visionary leader and award-winning teacher with a passion for transforming young lives through art," according to the press release.
"His lifelong commitment to excellence in arts education is widely recognized in the U.S. and abroad," Pollack said. "I look forward to welcoming alumnus Aaron Dworkin back to campus next summer and working together with the U-M School of Music, Theatre & Dance as they prepare and inspire the next generation of performing artists."
Dworkin is recognized as one of the foremost international leaders committed to arts education and advocacy, the U-M press release stated.
"I am tremendously honored to be joining a community comprised of leaders committed to scholarship and artistic excellence," Dworkin said in a statement. "As we progress into an age that redefines artistic pursuits, I am eager to bring my experience and skill sets to bear as we nurture and empower a diverse student body."
