Augustana music program stands out for faculty mentorship

Augustana College is one of 10 schools recognized as a 2027 Small-Program Mentorship Standout by College Music Major, a music-college research and admissions-consulting service.  

Smaller music programs where "close faculty access and meaningful undergraduate responsibility shape student development" were selected from across the country, according to longtime music educator Dr. David Lee Fish, founder and principal of College Music Major.

“At Augustana, we get to know our students,” said Margaret Ellis '93, assistant professor of music. “And we’re here to support them, whether that means getting extra help with courses or talking through what comes after graduation. Our doors are always open, and we want each student to be able to make their music experience here their own.”

Augustana’s selection as a Standout school reflects the strength of the structure of its music program, opportunities for artistic development and strong faculty guidance, according to College Music Major.

“Augustana gave me a strong foundation to pursue my career as a professional musician,” said Dr. Alexis Aguilar ’19, a saxophonist and educator based in the Twin Cities. “Dr. Randall, the saxophone professor at Augustana, is my greatest teacher and continues to inspire me in my career.

“This semester, I have the privilege of returning to Augustana as a sabbatical replacement for Dr. Hall, and I am so impressed by the talent of the students and sheer volume of participation across the department. The multiple opportunities and the high level of enthusiasm from students and faculty make this a special place to study music."

The 2027 Small-Program Mentorship Standouts, in alphabetical order:

   Amherst College
   Augustana College
   Denison University
   DePauw University
   Hamilton College
   Hope College
   Kenyon College
   Lawrence University
   Luther College
   Williams College