UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Ann Marie Stanley, director of the School of Music, and Russell Bloom, assistant director of facilities, engagement and outreach in the School of Music, were named the recipients of the 2024 Penn State Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR) Outstanding External Support Award.
For more than 25 years, this DDAR award has recognized the exemplary work of University partners who work alongside the division to advance and improve Penn State.
Stanley and Bloom were chosen from a record 126 nominations from across the University.
B. Stephen Carpenter II, the Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Dean in the College of Arts and Architecture, said the award underscores the exceptional service and contributions by Stanley and Bloom to the college and University.
“Ann Marie and Russell’s efforts have strengthened our bonds with alumni and supporters, which drives even further the support for our students, faculty and staff,” Carpenter said. “They exemplify the spirit of the School of Music and help to mold the future we all envision in the College of Arts and Architecture and the University.”
Stanley was named director of the School of Music in July 2023, and since her first day on campus, she said she has focused on creating a wholistic approach to music education and working to remove any barriers that might inhibit access to School of Music educational programs and performances.
“I knew immediately when I arrived at Penn State that this is a university with incredible support for outreach efforts, which is what inspires Russell and me to tell the story of the School of Music,” Stanley said. “I am so honored that we have been recognized for our efforts.”
Bloom came to Penn State in 1987 to serve as a graduate assistant in the music education program and later became a full-time staff member. Since then, his position in the school has evolved to offer support in several different areas, perhaps most notably serving as an organizer of the Penn’s Woods Music Festival since 1989 and serving as a representative on the design team for the Recital Hall.
A singer himself, Bloom was a graduate assistant for the Glee Club and helped to organize the club’s 100th anniversary celebration. The many hats Bloom wears places him in what he calls “the in-between.”
“Supporting the mission of the School of Music has always been a priority for me in the roles I have had,” Bloom said. “I am grateful that I get to play a small part living and working in the ‘in-between’ while Raising the Song for Penn State.”
Stanley and Bloom received the award on May 13 at DDAR’s annual award celebration.