Dr. Margaret Merrion joined Western Michigan University as dean of its College of Fine Arts in July 2000, after a decade as dean of the College of Fine Arts at Ball State University.

During her 30-year career in higher education, Merrion has held a number of leadership positions. After several years as an elementary, junior high and high school teacher, she joined the faculty of the University of Northern Iowa as supervisor of clinical experiences and coordinator of undergraduate and graduate studies. In 1986 she joined the Ball State faculty as associate dean.

The author or co-author of five books, and more than two dozen articles, Merrion is active in a number of professional and arts organizations, including past president of the International Council of Fine Arts Deans, and national and board member of Imagining America. She is a consultant-evaluator for the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the Accreditation Review Council.

Merrion earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from Chicago State University and master’s and doctoral degrees in music education from the University of Missouri at Columbia. Additionally, she completed Harvard University’s management development program.