Craig Hlavac

Craig Hlavac is an Associate Professor and Chairperson of the Music Department at Southern Connecticut State University, where he also serves as Associate Dean of Liberal Arts in the College of Arts & Sciences. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music and a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Connecticut, a Master of Music from Yale University, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Hartford.

• Bachelor of Arts in Music, University of Connecticut
• Bachelor of Science in Education, University of Connecticut
• Master of Music, Yale University
• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, University of Hartford

Dr. Hlavac's research focuses on mission-based management in higher education, exploring how academic leaders align decision-making with institutional goals. His recent scholarship emphasizes data-driven resource allocation, crisis leadership during the pandemic, and integrating student voices into administrative strategies. He teaches Music Theory, Ear Training, Instrumental Ensembles, and Music Technology.

His Google Scholar publications reveal trends in departmental leadership, including the use of enrollment data for strategic planning, fundraising responsibilities for chairs, and the role of mission statements in transformative governance. Notable presentations include "Departments in Crisis: What to do when the Department is Threatened" at the Academic Department Chair Annual Conference and workshops on ensemble assessment and leadership challenges.

Dr. Hlavac actively engages in music performance as a conductor and performer, leading ensembles such as the CRH Wind Ensemble and SCSU University Band at venues like the Paul Mellon Arts Center and Webster Bank Arena. He has served as adjudicator, clinician, and consultant for festivals and school ensembles across Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Grants include co-PI roles for the "Music Education Program Development" initiative and contributions to the U.S. Department of Education's "Gear Up" program (2012-2018). His professional activities span solo recitals in Germany and collaborative performances with the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra and Yale Camerata.