Bio – Elaine Walter

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DR. ELAINE R. WALTER

Artistic Advisor

Education

B.M., Anna Maria College
Ph.D., The Catholic University of America

Professional Experience

Dr. Walter was formerly the dean of and professor of music at the Benjamin T. Rome School of Music at The Catholic University of America.  She was the founder, executive director, and artistic director of The Summer Opera Theatre Company from 1978 to 2008.  Dr. Walter has produced or directed approximately 75 operas as well as various music programs for such organizations as the White House Historical Association, the United States Information Agency, and the National Italian-American Foundation.  She also has served as the chair or as a member of numerous committees of The Catholic University of America and regional and national education and arts organizations.

Other Volunteer Activities

Dr. Walter has been an adjudicator or a review panelist for the Metropolitan Opera Regional Auditions, the Pittsburgh Concert Society, the Annapolis Opera Competition, the U.S. Department of Education’s Jacob Javits Scholarships, the National Endowment for the Arts/United States Information Agency’s Arts America Program, and the Kennedy Center’s Fellowships for Teachers of the Arts.  She was a trustee of Anna Maria College and of the Subcommittee on Music and Liturgy of The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.  She continues to be a consultant to a number of national and regional arts and education organizations on redefining their mission and organization and to singers for career, management, and employment opportunities. She is a frequent lecturer to national and regional organizations.

Awards

The Catholic University of America:  Presidential Medal for Community Service, Presidential Commission on Women Award, and Alumni Achievement in the Arts
WETA:  Woman of Achievement
Anna Maria College:  Honorary Ph.D. (the first alumna to receive this award on the college’s 50th anniversary)