Dr. Dawn Pierce

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Dawn Pierce, recognized mezzo-soprano, is known for her vibrant approach to performance and teaching. Committed to empowering individuals to embrace their unique voices, she is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of performers. In Fall 2024, she joined Penn State University as an Assistant Professor of Music (Voice), bringing extensive experience and a forward-thinking vision to the opera program. Her goal is to integrate innovation and technique while supporting the personal well-being of 21st-century musicians. Dawn's philosophy is to inspire students, many of whom advance to prestigious programs such as Juilliard, and build successful careers in opera and Broadway music education. Previously, she taught at Ithaca College for 15 years, where she received the Faculty Excellence Award in 2022. She established the Opera Direction Certification program at IC Opera Studio and launched a Voice Intensive, which is now recognized as an interdisciplinary Arts Intensive program. Instrumental in the Strategic Planning Committee, she helped shape the college's vision and goals. Internationally, Dawn founded the Opera Company Middlebury Young Artist Program to provide professional development for emerging artists and has been published as an instructor by Great Courses.

Research Interests

Requirements for Pennsylvania State University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:23
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
GRE General
Prerequisites
Master's degree in related field for PhD Baccalaureate degree from accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Writing Sample
  • Official Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE scores are highly recommended but not strictly required for Applied Linguistics.