The College of Fine Arts and Communications is pleased to announce new leadership in three academic areas: the Department of Dance, the School of Communications and the School of Music.
Curt Holman — Chair, Department of Dance
Curt Holman has been appointed chair of the Department of Dance. He returns to this role with a legacy of meaningful contributions. During his previous tenure as chair, Holman was key in major projects, including significant renovations to spaces in the Richards Building that enhanced student learning and sense of community, the hiring of new faculty, the establishment of the Leona Holbrook Endowment and the integration of the Young Ambassadors into the department. We are grateful for his continued leadership and willingness to serve in this role once again.
We also extend heartfelt thanks to Shayla Bott for her dedicated leadership as chair. Professor Bott has served with diligence and thoughtful care for the best interests of the department, and with commitment to the mission of BYU.
Kris Boyle — Director, School of Communications
Kris Boyle has been appointed director of the School of Communications. Boyle teaches in the Journalism and Sports Media sequence. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the School of Communications, followed by a Ph.D. in Mass Communications from Texas Tech University. Before returning to BYU in 2014, he taught journalism at Creighton University and worked as a reporter for the Idaho Falls Post Register. Most recently, he served as associate director of the School of Communications, where he provided exceptional service to the school, college and university.
We also extend sincere appreciation to Mark Callister for his years of service as director. His leadership has been characterized by kindness, humility and a deep commitment to BYU’s mission and aims. This focus has greatly enriched the student experience in the School of Communications.
Shawn Smith — Director, School of Music
Shawn Smith has been appointed director of the School of Music. Smith currently serves as director of bands in the School of Music. His work with the BYU Wind Symphony has garnered international attention and students have responded to his teaching with positive enthusiasm. Before coming to BYU, Smith spent 16 years as director of bands at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. He is a diligent and contributing member of the faculty, bringing thoughtfulness, collegiality and a sense of humor to his work. We are grateful for his willingness to serve in this role.
Please join us in congratulating these faculty members and expressing appreciation for their service and leadership within the College of Fine Arts and Communications.