Converse University Celebrates 20 Years of Music Therapy Education and Impact
Written by Michelle Bowen
The Petrie School of Music at Converse University proudly celebrates the 20th anniversary of its Music Therapy program, a pioneering academic major that has trained generations of board-certified music therapists and made lasting contributions to both the profession and the community.
Since welcoming the program’s first students in 2006, the program has prepared students to use music as a powerful tool for healing and change across diverse populations — from hospitals and schools to mental health centers, nursing homes, hospice care, and beyond.
“This is more than just a milestone for the Music Therapy program – it’s a celebration of the lives our students and alumni have touched,” said Carol Shultis, Director of Music Therapy in the Petrie School of Music. “We’ve watched our graduates go on to shape the field with compassion, innovation, and a deep commitment to healing through music.”
“We’ve watched our graduates go on to shape the field with compassion, innovation, and a deep commitment to healing through music.”
Dr. Carol Shultis
To mark the 20th anniversary, the university will host a month-long celebration with events beginning with an opening ceremony and reception on September 5 at 3:30 in the Daniel Recital Hall on Converse’s campus in Spartanburg. Events throughout the month will also feature a Music Therapy program Open House, continuing education courses, and interactive music making.
In addition to these events, the Petrie School of Music will welcome special guests who have played an important role in the Music Therapy program’s history. These include founding faculty member and professor emerita Dr. Elizabeth York, the program’s second faculty member Dr. Anne Lipe, as well as fieldwork site representatives, practicum partners, and other community stakeholders. They will share memories and insights from their experiences working with music therapy students over the years.
We’re incredibly proud of the community we’ve built – a community grounded in the belief that music can change lives,” said Dr. Chris Vaneman, Dean of the School of the Arts. “My colleagues in the Music Therapy program, their alumni, and their students inspire me daily by their dedication to using music to make the world a better place.”
The event will culminate on October 4 with a full day of continuing education courses on Converse’s campus in collaboration with the Music Therapy Association of South Carolina.
The anniversary celebration is open to students, alumni, faculty, professionals, and members of the public who wish to learn more about the role of music therapy in today’s world.