Roosevelt University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Shannon McGinnis as interim dean of the Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA). A distinguished pianist, educator, administrator and advocate for the performing arts, McGinnis brings a deep understanding of the college’s mission, a commitment to student success and a proven record of academic leadership to the role.
As interim dean, Dr. McGinnis will provide administrative and academic leadership across CCPA’s Music Conservatory, Theatre Conservatory and Interdisciplinary Conservatory while helping guide the college through its next chapter of growth and innovation. Having served in multiple leadership positions within the college, including associate dean, program director of Opera and co-chair of the Interdisciplinary Conservatory, Dr. McGinnis brings extensive institutional knowledge and a strong connection to the students, faculty and staff who make CCPA a nationally recognized destination for performing arts education.
Dr. McGinnis joined the Roosevelt faculty in 2015 and was promoted to the rank of tenured associate professor of Opera in 2024. Throughout her career, she has earned recognition as one of the nation’s leading collaborative pianists and vocal coaches. Her performances have been praised by Opera News, the Chicago Tribune and Chicago Classical Review, and she has appeared alongside many of the classical music world’s most celebrated singers and artists. Recent highlights include performances and recitals presented by organizations such as the Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concert Series, the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society, San Francisco Performances and the Ravinia Festival.
In addition to her artistic accomplishments, Dr. McGinnis is widely respected for her dedication to training the next generation of performers. Her students regularly gain admission to prestigious graduate programs and professional training opportunities throughout the United States and abroad. She is also a founding board member of Art Song Chicago, where she helped establish educational initiatives, professional development opportunities and partnerships that expand access to high-quality arts training.
Dean McGinnis holds a doctor of musical arts in Accompanying and Chamber Music from the University of Michigan, a master of music in Vocal Coaching and Accompanying from Florida State University and a bachelor of music in Piano Performance from Meredith College. Among her many honors are the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance Emerging Artist Award and the Christopher Kendall Award for collaboration, entrepreneurship and community engagement.
“It is an extraordinary honor to serve as interim dean of the Chicago College of Performing Arts. CCPA has long been a place where artistic excellence, innovation and community intersect. I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our talented students, faculty, staff and alumni as we continue to advance the college’s mission and build upon its many successes.”
As interim dean, Dr. McGinnis will help lead CCPA as it continues to prepare students for meaningful careers as artists, educators, scholars and creative entrepreneurs. Her combination of artistic achievement, educational leadership and commitment to student development positions her well to support the college’s continued momentum.
“Over the next year, my goal is to strengthen the student experience, deepen interdisciplinary collaboration and expand opportunities for artistic and professional growth. By building on CCPA’s strong foundation, we will continue to foster a vibrant creative community that reflects the excellence, diversity and innovation that define Roosevelt University.”
