YSU Edwards leads as arts dean

The new dean says he'll focus on continuing and enhancing current programs.
YOUNGSTOWN -- Joseph Edwards, whose career at Youngstown State University spans nearly four decades, is the new dean of the university's College of Fine and Performing Arts.
Edwards has been interim dean of the College of Fine and Performing Arts since the previous dean, Dr. George McCloud, was named special assistant to the president for university advancement.
"Joe is the consummate professional and a proven, respected campus leader," Robert Herbert, YSU Provost and vice president for academic affairs, said. "I am confident that the college will continue to excel under his leadership."
"I think the primary concern I have is that we carry on projects and programs we've already started, so we don't lose the momentum we have now," Edwards said.
Focus
He said he would focus on furthering and enhancing performances, shows and exhibits the college offers.
"And even beyond that, we'll continue our work with SMARTS," he said. SMARTS is an education partnership involving YSU's College of Fine and Performing Arts, the College of Education, the Youngstown city schools and area arts organizations.
"We want that to continue to be on the forefront," Edwards said. "Along with that we have Homework Express, our television show for area students, which has great potential. It provides an in-service opportunity for students in telecommunications program, as well."
Edwards said he would like to provide students with high quality faculty members who are working in their professions. He'd also like to bring big-name performers into the school.
"We do that now; we'd just like to do more of it," Edwards said.
Edwards graduated from Ursuline High School in 1960 and received a bachelor's degree in music education in 1965. Edwards went on to receive a master's degree in music performance as a woodwind specialist from Michigan State University in 1967.
Edwards returned to YSU in 1969 as an instructor in the Dana School of Music, where he taught clarinet and saxophone. He also directed the symphonic, concert and marching bands.
He was named assistant director of Dana in 1983 and became director in 1990. In 2000, he was named interim dean of the Beeghly College of Education, then returned to the College of Fine and Performing Arts in 2002 as associate dean. He was named interim dean in January 2005.
YSU's College of Fine and Performing Arts includes the Dana School of Music, the Department of Art and the Department of Communications and Theater. There are about 1,000 students in those departments.