Dr. Ron Brendel has been on sabbatical this semester, and was excited to talk to us about it and some other big news!

Q: How has sabbatical been for you?

R: It has been a welcomed change of pace…I think I’ve been at this higher ed thing for 36 years, so it was good to take time away for a project, and just a sort of mind-clearning break. The whole paradigm shift with the global health issue caused some unforeseen challenges, but I have managed to do some of what I intended back in January.

Q: You were just accepted the position of Director of Graduate Studies in Music! What are you looking forward to the most?

R: This is a position I did not really go seeking, but have been thinking about administrative work for a few years, so when it was presented, after a few days of thought and prayer, I accepted. In a way, I’m looking forward to learning something new about the inside workings of the academy, and more specifically, to trying to facilitate some tightening up of degree programs, and doing some degree assessment. The bottom line, though, is to try to always have the student as the main motivation in any decisions or changes that may be made.

Q: Have you come up with the title for the book you’re writing during your sabbatical?

R: It changed a little from my proposal to when I actually submitted the idea to the publisher, but at the moment it is “Singing Britten: Suggestions for Tenors”

Q: What is one thing you would tell seniors graduating this May?

R: Without question, this is the hardest question to answer….and if I only get one “thing to tell seniors” it would be to stay grounded in the Truth of Jesus Christ. My life verse is Philippians 4:8-9. If your mind is firmly on Christ, everything else is secondary. Everything.

We can’t wait to see you back at Lee in your new role!