Alumnus Kenneth Fischer recognized with honorary doctorate of fine arts degree
School of Education alumnus Kenneth Fischer, President Emeritus of the University Musical Society (UMS), was recommended to receive an honorary doctorate of fine arts at the University of Michigan 2019 Winter Commencement. The School of Education nominated Ken for this honor jointly with several representatives of the University Musical Society. UMS is an independent, multidisciplinary performing arts organization that presents 60 to 90 performances every season, sponsors an extensive education program, commissions and presents new work, and hosts many artists’ residencies.
President Emeritus Fischer received his master’s degree in higher education in 1967 and completed significant work toward a PhD. He currently serves as a member of the School of Education Dean’s Advisory Council. In his 30-year tenure leading the University Musical Society, he has been instrumental in leading programs and developing relationships that contribute to arts education at the University of Michigan—in Ann Arbor and beyond. Just one of many examples of this work is the recent partnership created between UMS and SOE’s partners at the Detroit School of Arts.
In 2015, President Barack Obama presented UMS with the National Medal of Arts, the highest award in the arts given by the U.S. government. Fischer accepted the award on behalf of UMS during a ceremony at the White House. Before working for UMS, Fischer was a higher education association executive and management consultant in Washington, D.C. He has degrees from The College of Wooster in addition to the University of Michigan.
“We are proud to celebrate this accomplishment with our distinguished alumnus,” said Dean Elizabeth Moje.