#United States #Lakeland #Florida Southern College #Martha Placeres #Wilhelmina MacDonald

Florida Southern College Appoints Dr. Martha Placeres

Florida Southern College has proudly named Dr. Martha Placeres as the Wilhelmina MacDonald Endowed Faculty Chair in Music. This prestigious title recognizes her remarkable contributions to the field of music and her dedication to the college's mission. Dr. Placeres has been a faculty member since 2019, and she holds vital positions such as the chair of the music department and the director of orchestra and string studies.

An Accomplished Global Musician

Dr. Placeres is not just an educator but also an internationally acclaimed musician. In 2025, she had the extraordinary opportunity to perform with renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli at two magnificent concerts held in the ancient Anfiteatro degli Scavi, also known as the Amphitheatre of Pompeii, in Italy. This event showcased her talent on a global platform. Additionally, she made history by becoming the first Mexican-American female conductor to lead the Symphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka in a collaborative concert, further highlighting her exceptional capabilities in the field.

“It is with great pride that we announce Dr. Placeres' appointment,” stated Dr. Tracey Tedder, the provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Her leadership, dedication, and numerous contributions to music education embody our values at Florida Southern College. This endowed chair position symbolizes our esteem for her commitment to excellence and her significant impact on our students."

The Legacy of Wilhelmina MacDonald

The establishment of this chair was made possible through the generosity of the Estate of Wilhelmina MacDonald, who had a strong connection to the Lakeland region. MacDonald was originally from Massachusetts and deeply admired music; in her will, she allocated considerable funds to support the music department at Florida Southern College.

In accepting this honor, Dr. Placeres expressed her gratitude, stating, “Receiving the Wilhelmina MacDonald Endowed Chair of Music is a profound honor for me. It reflects the support and encouragement I’ve received at Florida Southern College since my arrival. I’m thankful for an environment that fosters my growth as an educator, researcher, and musician. This recognition means more than I can express.”

A Strong Educational Background

Dr. Placeres has an extensive educational background that enhances her credentials. She earned her bachelor’s degree in violin performance from the Puebla State Conservatory of Music, followed by a master's degree in music education from the University of Texas at Brownsville. She furthered her expertise by completing a doctorate in orchestral conducting from Texas Tech University. Before her tenure at Florida Southern, she held directing roles in orchestra and string studies at both the University of Texas at Brownsville and Washburn University.

Advancing the Arts

The Wilhelmina MacDonald Endowed Chair in Music will play a crucial role in promoting growth and innovation in the arts at Florida Southern College. The college is dedicated to preparing students to have a positive and meaningful impact on society through their work in the arts and other disciplines.

About Florida Southern College

Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College is the oldest private college in Florida, maintaining a strong commitment to academic excellence. With over 70 undergraduate programs and distinctive graduate offerings, the college aims to provide an exceptional educational experience. Florida Southern is recognized for its engaging learning opportunities and competitive NCAA Division II sports programs, consistently ranking among “Best Regional Universities in the South” by U.S. News & World Report.

In closing, Dr. Placeres’ appointment not only highlights her individual achievements but also represents the ongoing dedication of Florida Southern College to fostering excellence in music and education. As the college continues to create an environment that celebrates the arts, the future looks bright for both Dr. Placeres and her students.