September 19, 2023
Dear Colleagues,
Thanks to those of you who attended today’s all-campus meeting in person, virtually, or by video after the fact. Many of you have now no doubt become aware that the Master of Music degree in Music Performance is on the list of 14 SUNY Potsdam programs identified for possible discontinuation.
Although I am sorry that we did not have more time for public conversations about this decision, I am confident that it is the right thing to do for SUNY Potsdam and for Crane. University leadership, Crane Department Chairs, and I are certainly happy to discuss the decision-making process with you in our upcoming Crane meetings.
In the meantime, I ask that you help me in dispelling any rumors or misinformation that may be surrounding programs at Crane. We are not at this time exploring any discontinuation of the undergraduate degree in music performance.
It is often the case that this kind of misunderstanding can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, so it is important that we take any opportunity to correct misapprehensions regarding the situation.
I know this is a challenging time for SUNY Potsdam and for Crane, and I deeply appreciate your ongoing dedication and adaptability.
All best,
Will
William Gibbons, Ph.D. (he/him)
Dean, The Crane School of Music