Biography
Emily Wells serves as Senior Assistant Dean and Managing Director of Rice University's Shepherd School of Music, where she is the school's senior administrative leader and a strategic partner to the Dean. She works across every facet of the school's operations to align people, resources, and strategy in support of the Shepherd School's faculty, students, and artistic and educational mission.
Since joining the Shepherd School in 2022, Emily has helped lead a period of significant institutional growth and organizational development. She directed planning and execution of the Shepherd School's 50th Anniversary celebration, including the milestone Gala that welcomed more than 700 guests and raised $1.5 million in philanthropic support. She has strengthened the school's administrative infrastructure through strategic financial planning, operational modernization, leadership development, and cross-team collaboration, while also cultivating partnerships with organizations including the Houston Symphony, Aspen Music Festival and School, and The Cliburn to create new opportunities for students, faculty, and the broader campus community.
Prior to joining Rice, Emily spent nine years in leadership roles within the Vocal Arts division at The Juilliard School and began her arts administration career at the Aspen Music Festival and School after training as an opera singer.
Emily is also a professional leadership coach, having completed Rice University's CoachRICE program through the Doerr Institute for New Leaders. She coaches professionals across higher education, nonprofit, and corporate organizations and has given recent presentations for the Eastman School of Music, the College Music Society, and Juilliard.
Outside of the office, Emily enjoys training for marathons, cheering on the Buffalo Bills and Sabres, and exploring estate sales.