#United States #Franklin #Performing Arts #Dean College #Stephen Ursprung

Stephen Ursprung Steps into Leadership Role

Dean College proudly announces the appointment of Stephen Ursprung as the new dean of the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance and the School of the Arts. This announcement follows a comprehensive national search, culminating in an effective start to his new role immediately.

Ursprung has been an integral part of Dean College since 2016, having most recently served as the interim assistant dean. During this period, he made significant contributions that enhanced the college's curricular offerings, increased student engagement, and developed cross-disciplinary partnerships aimed at strengthening the college’s renowned dance and theater programs.

“Stepping into this role is an honor for me,” Ursprung shared. “As we look to the future of performing arts education at Dean College, I am committed to ensuring our initiatives are guided by innovation, inclusivity, and artistic excellence.”

In his multifaceted career, Ursprung has demonstrated a dedication to advancing the arts through both educational leadership and artistic engagement. His background includes chairing the college's curriculum committee, participating on the liberal arts academic program review team, and mentoring the Dean College chapter of the National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA). On a larger scale, he co-chairs DANCE 2050, an initiative by the National Dance Education Organization that envisions the future of dance education across the United States.

Ursprung’s impressive artistic background includes being a member of both SAG-AFTRA and the Actors' Equity Association. His recent work includes roles in movies such as Hocus Pocus 2 and Little Women, along with performances in notable productions like La Cage Aux Folles and Oklahoma! at Trinity Repertory Company. He has also choreographed several productions for the Bridge Repertory Theatre in Boston. Moreover, he completed a research fellowship at Jacob's Pillow in 2024, one of the most esteemed institutions in American modern dance.

In addition to his other pursuits, Ursprung remains actively involved in various projects including Dancing Legacy, the NilsSprung Dance Project, and Reject Dance Theatre.

Dr. Scott Sibley, Dean College’s Provost, expressed enthusiasm about Ursprung’s vision, remarking, “Stephen’s expertise, experience, and passion for student-centered education make him the right choice to lead our performing arts schools into their next phase.”

Ursprung takes pride in holding both a B.A. in Economics and Italian Studies from Brown University and an M.F.A. in Dance from Smith College.

Dean College, situated within a tradition that emphasizes the importance of student success both academically and personally, prides itself on creating a nurturing environment for its students. For over 160 years, the institution has established itself as a supportive community where education merges with exceptional mentorship, leading its graduates to thriving careers marked by social responsibility and leadership. This commitment is encapsulated in what Dean College refers to as The Dean Difference.