McKenzie to Lead Both School of Music and School of Performing and Visual Arts

Dr. Colin McKenzie

The University of Southern Mississippi has named Dr. Colin McKenzie interim director of the School of Performing and Visual Arts while he continues in his current role as director of the School of Music.

The appointment follows the departure of Prof. Meg Brooker, who has accepted a leadership position at another university after serving as director of the School of Performing and Visual Arts for four years.

“Prof. Brooker has provided outstanding leadership for our School of Performing and Visual Arts. We are deeply appreciative of her service here at Southern Miss and wish her the best in this next chapter of her career,” said Dr. Chris Winstead, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “We look forward to continuing to collaborate with her in the future.”

McKenzie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in performance and arts leadership, having served at Southern Miss as associate director of bands and director of The Pride of Mississippi prior to his appointment as director of the School of Music in 2021.

In his interim role, McKenzie will provide leadership for both the School of Music and the School of Performing and Visual Arts.

“The arts are central to the mission and identity of The University of Southern Mississippi, and I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the School of Performing and Visual Arts as its interim director,” McKenzie said. “I remain deeply committed to the School of Music and serving as its director, while embracing the opportunity to work alongside colleagues across all arts disciplines to support student success, foster artistic excellence and strengthen the impact of the arts throughout our university and the communities we serve.”

Southern Miss is one of only a select group of universities nationwide accredited in music, theatre, dance and art and design. Together, the School of Music and School of Performing and Visual Arts present hundreds of performances, exhibitions and community engagement opportunities each year, providing students with exceptional artistic and professional experiences.

Winstead noted that McKenzie’s dual role will provide continuity for students, faculty and alumni while encouraging deeper collaboration among music, theatre, dance and visual arts programs.

“The appointment supports ongoing efforts to strengthen interdisciplinary opportunities, expand artistic partnerships and further elevate the visibility and impact of the arts across Southern Miss and the region,” Winstead said.

With a longstanding reputation for excellence in the arts, Southern Miss continues to serve as a cultural leader for Mississippi and beyond, preparing the next generation of artists, educators, performers and creative professionals.