Because the vast majority of students enrolled in music courses are pursuing a major in music education, ESU is bringing back a tenure track position of assistant professor of Music Education and Community Outreach. This position also will be responsible for music outreach to PreK-12 students in Kansas, as well as recruiting future Emporia State students.

Investment in the music department restores permanent funding for the full-time instructor position of Director of Choral Activities, one of the most important and high-profile faculty positions in the department. This position is highly engaged in the Emporia community as well as with high school choir directors and choirs across the state.

To further support music as a part of the ESU culture, the music department also will receive a significant budget increase to compensate specialized faculty who teach applied music lessons, work as accompanists and direct the Color Guard and Stingers Dance Team that are part of the Emporia Marching Hornets band program.