Michael Benson, Associate Professor of Music and department chair

How long have you been at Malone University?

Almost 10 years.

WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO WORK AT MALONE?

The opportunity to integrate my faith in the piano studio or classroom, and to teach piano pedagogy courses to music majors.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB RESPONSIBILITIES?

Learning from colleagues and students as we work to make the world a more loving place through our shared Christian mission and calling.

HOW DO YOU ANSWER WHEN ASKED TO DESCRIBE MALONE'S BRAND OF EDUCATION?

Christ-centered and life-changing!

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE MALONE STUDENTS?

Malone students make the world better by living out their calling to serve the world and our communities through faith.

HOW HAS WORKING AT MALONE SHAPED YOUR INDIVIDUAL FAITH JOURNEY?

I have learned that God is always present in our call to work at Malone. Serving and teaching here is meaningful because of the time I spend with friends and students enrolled in my classes. I love what I do because I love Malone.

DESCRIBE YOUR COLLEAGUES AND THEIR COMMITMENT TO MALONE?

My colleagues challenge me to be my best inside and outside the classroom each day. Disagreement is managed thoughtfully and respectfully, and outcomes reflect patience and striving for unity and consensus-building.

which superhero do you most identify with?

Underdog. I valued his statement in every animated show, "There is no need to fear, Underdog is here!" He was fierce and brave. And, I really liked the theme song and that "good" always won in the end.