Office of the Provost

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Deanna Fitzgerald, M.F.A, as the next Dean of the School of Fine Arts at UConn, effective August 1, 2024. Deanna brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our institution from her tenure at the University of Arizona. With 16 years of service, in various roles from faculty member to her most recent position of Vice Dean of the College of Fine Arts, and through previous roles as Associate Director, Director of Graduate Studies, Interim Director of the School of Theatre, Film and Television and the School of Dance and, Interim Associate Director of the School of Music,  Deanna has demonstrated dedication to the arts, education, and leadership in various capacities. Deanna’s adaptability, resilience, and commitment to excellence make her the ideal candidate to lead our School of Fine Arts.

Deanna has a multifaceted background as an artist, educator, and administrator in the field of lighting design that is truly impressive. She received her training at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) and is a member of in United Scenic Artists. The publication of Deanna’s book, “The Heart of Light: A Holistic Primer for a Life and Career in Lighting Design and Production,” demonstrates her deep understanding of the discipline and desire to share knowledge with others. The emphasis on parallels between creative and meditative practices, as well as her focus on inclusivity and diversity in the arts, reflects a forward-thinking and compassionate approach to her work. Deanna’s efforts to examine neurodiversity in the performing arts and challenge assumptions about who can participate and excel in the field are commendable. She is a true advocate for social change in the field of arts.

Deanna boasts an impressive portfolio in both national and international design, with standout projects like the world premiere of the Las Vegas adaptation of STOMP OUT LOUD following years of touring with the original STOMP production, as well as the tour Cirque Mechanics: Boom Town, which enjoyed an off-Broadway stint at The New Victory Theatre.  Her design for the North American tour of the Australian company’s Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo garnered attention, particularly with it’s run in Toronto.  In Arizona, she is a regular designer for the esteemed Rogue Theatre. Her lighting expertise encompasses a broad range of genres, having created designs for the San Francisco Opera’s Merola and Coconut Grove Playhouse’s Young Artist programs, original dance designs for choreographers such as Deborah Hay, Ben Levy, and Andy Vaca.  Deanna has fulfilled other roles with notable companies such as the Cincinnati Ballet, the Opera Theatre Music Festival in Lucca, Italy, and has served on the Boards of Directors for the University Resident Theatre Association and the United States Institute of Theatre Technology, and currently serves on the Western Region Exam Committee for United Scenic Artists and as a General Editor for Theatre Design and Technology magazine.

Deanna brings an extensive background and record of achievement in managing complex budgets, overseeing endowment and scholarship distributions, and leading strategic initiatives.  This speaks to her ability to navigate the administrative challenges of higher education while remaining focused on the core mission of fostering student success and artistic excellence. Her reputation as a creative, transparent, empathetic, and pragmatic leader aligns well with the School of Fine Arts values and priorities.

We are excited to welcome Deanna to our community and look forward to the contributions she will make as a member of our faculty and leadership team. Her experience, vision, and dedication will undoubtedly enrich our School of Fine Arts and help us continue to fulfill our mission of excellence in arts education, research and creative work, and engagement. Please join me in welcoming Deanna to UConn.

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

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