Dr. Stephen W. Müller named interim dean of Liberty University School of Music

Liberty University has announced the appointment of Stephen W. Müller as Interim Dean of the School of Music. Müller is assuming the position held since 2012 by Dr. Vernon Whaley.

Müller holds the Master of Music, the Doctor of Ministry in Transformational Worship, and is ABD toward the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education at UNC Greensboro. Müller spent more than 25 years as a music educator in schools and churches in Texas, Washington State, and California before joining the School of Music faculty in the fall of 2013. He presently serves as Associate Dean of the Center for Music Education & Performance.

Under Müller’s leadership, the undergraduate music education degree program has more than tripled in enrollment, with music education graduates obtaining a near 100% job placement rate. Students have the opportunity to receive state licensure for elementary and secondary music jobs.

“I am excited and honored to step into this role,” Müller said. “The next chapter for the School of Music will be built on a stable foundation comprised of a great faculty and staff, talented and called students, and incredible facilities. The future is bright.”

Dr. Whaley said Müller will excel in this new role. “Dean Müller’s life experience, love for the Lord, and commitment to the music faculty and students he serves provides an exceptional platform for casting vision and long-range strategy for all areas of the School of Music,” he said. “I know that he will step into this role with great skill, confidence, and commitment.”

Provost and Chief Academic Officer Scott Hicks expressed appreciation to both Whaley and Müller for the value that they add to the educational experience.

“Vernon Whaley’s selfless service to our students was his trademark and an example for all to follow,” Hicks said. “We are truly grateful for Dr. Whaley’s impact on the School of Music.”

Liberty University President Jerry Falwell echoed those sentiments.

“Dr. Whaley helped Liberty’s program become one of the largest schools of music in the country,” he said. “His extensive background in the music industry and ability to bring in professional artists to serve as mentors has enriched the whole experience for our students and created a world-class music school fully committed to our mission of Training Champions for Christ.”