07/28/2026
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Joel Neves as the new chair of the Visual and Performing Arts Department.
Describing VPA as a “shining diamond” at Michigan Tech, Dr. Neves brings incredible vision and enthusiasm to our community of artists, musicians, designers, and performers.
“The students and faculty here at Tech are just the best,” said Neves. “There is a hunger for excellence, an insatiable curiosity, a humility in learning, and a joy in collaboration that is second to none in my field.
Continue reading more about Joel Neves and his vision leading the VPA department in the Michigan Tech College of Sciences and Arts blog blogs.mtu.edu/sciences-arts/2026/07/joel-neves-named-new-visual-and-performing-arts-chair
Michigan Tech’s College of Sciences and Arts congratulates Joel Neves as he takes on his new position as chair of the department of visual and performing arts. Neves has served as a professor of music and director of orchestral activities in the department for 17 years. He also conducts the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra (KSO) and is a regular guest conductor of multiple professional, college and all-state orchestras.
“Joel is a superb conductor,” said LaReesa Wolfenbarger, dean of the College of Sciences and Arts. “What better preparation could there be for being a chair of a multidisciplinary department? He brings a strong collaborative approach to leadership and values the talents and accomplishments of the department as well as its aspirations.”
“The students and faculty here at Tech are just the best. There is a hunger for excellence, an insatiable curiosity, a humility in learning, and a joy in collaboration that is second to none in my field.” – Joel Neves, visual and performing arts department chair.
Get to know him on our blog: https://bit.ly/4vV0YQh