Montclair State University Names Shea Scruggs as Director of the John J. Cali School of Music

Accomplished arts leader and oboist brings vision and experience to one of New Jersey's premier music-education programs

Montclair, NJ (03/24/2025) — Montclair State University is pleased to announce the appointment of Shea Scruggs as the new director of the John J. Cali School of Music effective July 1, 2025. A highly accomplished arts administrator, educator and former professional oboist, Scruggs brings a dynamic background in music education and institutional leadership and program development to the Cali School.

Scruggs joins Montclair from the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music, where he served as Chief Enrollment Officer and Director of Institutional Research and Musician Experience. At Curtis, he led initiatives in admissions, alumni engagement and institutional research, while also playing a pivotal role in enhancing opportunities for all in classical music.

Committed to Student Success, Artistic Growth

A graduate of Swarthmore College, the Curtis Institute of Music and Cornell University's Johnson Graduate School of Management, Scruggs has also enjoyed an acclaimed professional career, serving in principal oboe positions in the San Francisco Opera, Cincinnati Symphony and Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. His leadership extends beyond performance and education - he is also a founding member of the Black Orchestral Network, an organization dedicated to increasing representation for Black musicians in classical music. His work in this space has garnered national attention, including being featured on NPR's "All Things Considered."

"I am thrilled to join this fantastic community of students, faculty and staff and continue the Cali School's tradition of excellence in performance and teaching," said Scruggs. "As director, I look forward to supporting faculty as they teach and develop the next generation of performers and educators, and empowering students as they create, explore and connect with local and global communities."

Montclair State University leadership expressed great enthusiasm for Scruggs' appointment, highlighting his deep understanding of both artistic and academic landscapes.

As director, Scruggs will oversee the continued growth and innovation of the John J. Cali School of Music, ensuring its commitment to excellence in music education, performance and therapy, while strengthening the school's presence in the New York and New Jersey arts communities.

"Shea's extensive experience as both an innovative arts administrator and an accomplished orchestral musician uniquely positions him to build on the Cali School's legacy of excellence while broadening its reach and impact," College of the Arts Dean Daniel Gurskis said. "His visionary approach and commitment to creating opportunities for young musicians align seamlessly with the University's mission and our aspirations for the future of music education."

About the John J. Cali School of Music

The John J. Cali School of Music offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in music education, music performance, music therapy, composition, jazz studies, and recording arts and production, as well as a two-year Artist's Diploma and one-year Performer's Certificate. Twenty-one full-time faculty members and approximately 200 part-time instructors serve more than 500 students, who matriculate through a competitive admissions process. The school maintains strong relationships with professional performance and educational organizations along with several music schools around the world, and beginning in the 21-22 Academic Year launched two major new initiatives with the Cali Pathways Project, focused on reducing barriers for burgeoning musicians in underserved communities, and the Cali Immersive Residency program, imbedding world-renowned artists and ensembles for week-long residencies at the school. Its facilities provide a conservatory-like setting, consisting of the 235-seat Jed Leshowitz Recital Hall, teaching studios, music practice and rehearsal rooms, and faculty studios. Our students and faculty engage in over 300 concerts and recitals a year.

Montclair State University

Montclair State University Names Shea Scruggs as Director of the John J. Cali School of Music

Accomplished arts leader and oboist brings vision and experience to one of New Jersey's premier music-education programs

Montclair State University

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