Meet the Running Start Team

Emily Henley is the Director of Career Education for the College of Music, providing career advising appointments, designing workshops to connect students with diverse panels of guest artists, and conducting in-class workshops on career development. Emily creates and develops MSU’s Running Start music entrepreneurship program, including residencies, workshops, pitch competitions, concert series, classes, and a graduate certificate in music career development. She also serves as an instructor for career courses at MSU. Additionally, she maintains a list of jobs and opportunities in the arts, and oversees experiential learning programs for the Running Start Office, working with collaborating organizations and maintaining strong employer relationships.

Emily’s background encompasses graphic design, marketing, event planning, performance, and teaching. Emily earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance as well as a minor in graphic design from Michigan State University in 2019. She received her Master’s degree in Classical Performance with the Harp from Roosevelt University CCPA in 2021. Emily has worked with the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, University of Michigan SMTD, and the Center for Arts Leadership at Roosevelt University CCPA.

207 Music Practice Building
Email: henleyem@msu.edu
Phone: (517) 353-9939
Fax: (517) 432-2880

Sign Up for an Advising Appointment via Handshake

Dylan Myers is the Running Start Communication, Research, and Events Intern. In his position, he assists in the creation and execution of communication, maintaining the Running Start website content, and provides support for various Running Start events, and connecting College of Music students to resources for career development in their field. Dylan also serves as a Peer Advisor through Career Service Network where he provides assistance to music students in career and program applications.

Dylan is currently working toward a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in bassoon performance with research interests in early music performance and pedagogy. Prior to attending MSU, Dylan worked in commercial reed production and band instrument repair industries, taught privately, and led a symphonic career where he can be heard on public radio stations in Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin.

207 Music Practice Building
Email: myersdy1@msu.edu
Phone: (517) 353-9939
Fax: (517) 432-2880

Joe Fielder is a Running Start Graphic Design and Social Media Content Creator Intern. In his position, he designs graphics, films, edits video content, and connects students, alumni, faculty, and guest artists to the Running Start’s services and events using platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Joe also provides support for Running Start events.

Joe is currently a third year undergrad student and is pursuing his Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies (Drums). In addition to his major, Joe has designed various posters, flyers, album covers, and would like to pursue a subsidiary career in Graphic Design.

207 Music Practice Building
Email: fielde17@msu.edu
Phone: 313-932-3717
Fax: 517-432-2880

Sam Gucwa is a Running Start Events and Social Media Management Intern. In her position, she attends and helps with Running Start events, provides free headshots to music students, and advises the Running Start team and music students on social media management and trends.

Sam is currently a third year undergrad student and is pursuing her Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies (Saxophone). In addition to her major, Sam is the founder of Sam Gucwa Sax LLC and fusion band Experimental Brunch. Sam has performed with names including the Boulder Philharmonic, the Gathering Orchestra, and Brian Vander Ark. Her debut album will release this fall. As a social media creator, @Sams_saxophone content seeks to demystify the musician’s process and engage audiences at all musical levels so that everyone can celebrate jazz music.

207 Music Practice Building
Email: gucwasam@msu.edu
Phone: (517) 353-9939
Fax: (517) 432-2880