On Jan. 28, Samford alumna and assistant professor of piano Cindy St. Clair was appointed as the interim chair of the Division of Music in Samford’s School of the Arts.
While being named to the position was a surprise to her, St. Clair said she considers this position an honor and privilege.
“It’s such an honor and privilege to be on this campus. It’s a meaningful place to my family and me. I have life-long friends that I made and am still friends with since my college days. It’s just an honor to be able to work here,” St. Clair said.
However, the central aspect about her new role that St. Clair is excited about is getting to work with students.
“I just love working with students; that’s the biggest thing I enjoy.” St. Clair said. “Anything I can do to shape or mold their growth is exciting to me.”
St. Clair also opened up about her Samford history. Even though she had a full-ride scholarship to Auburn University, she decided to come to Samford and pursue a bachelor’s of science degree in paralegal studies with a business concentration.
While she was still at Samford, she decided to take piano lessons as her elective and study with the piano teacher, Bailey Shepherd.
After leaving Samford, she worked in the legal field for more than 16 years . But when she retired from her legal career, St. Clair decided that she needed to be creative again, and she returned to Samford and obtained her bachelor’s degree in music.
St.Clair will serve in the chair’s position for 18 months, and after this position is over, she said she hopes to continue her other role as an assistant professor of piano.
St. Clair provided one piece of advice to faculty and students.
“Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your heart on fire!” St. Clair said.
Staff Writer
