Betty Anne Younker, PhD (Northwestern University) returns to Western University as dean and professor of Music Education of the Don Wright Faculty. She was on faculty from 1997-2000 during which time she was awarded the Dr. Pedro Goldman Award by the Faculty of Music Students' Council. In addition, she was awarded the distinguished Alumnus of the Year by Pennsylvania State University College of Arts and Architecture (2008). Before returning to Western, Younker was associate dean for Academic Affairs and associate professor of Music Education at the University of Michigan.
Her research interests include critical and creative thinking within the disciplines of philosophy and psychology. Publications include articles in national and international journals and chapters in several books. Paper presentations have occurred at state, national and international conferences.
Before appointments at the university level, Younker taught in band, choral, and general music settings in the public school system as well as taught flute students from beginning to university levels of performance.
Presently she serves on several editorial boards and committees for a variety of professional organizations, and is President-elect for the College Music Society.