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

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Dylan Myers is the Running Start Special Projects Intern. In his position, he researches and creates career development resources geared toward music students. Dylan also serves as a Peer Advisor through the 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

Noemi Bender is the Running Start Communications and Events Intern. She collaborates with the Running Start team on the creation and implementation of digital marketing content, assists in the weekly distribution of publicity materials, and researches career development opportunities for students within the College of Music. Additionally, she provides logistical support at events hosted by Running Start throughout the year. 

Prior to joining the Running Start team, Noemi completed an internship with Groton Hill Music Center where she assisted faculty and students during summer music programs. A strong advocate for new music, she co-founded the Massachusetts Modern Music Retreat, a 9-day summer music festival aiming to make new music accessible for all. 

207 Music Practice Building
Email: bendern3@msu.edu
Fax: 517-432-2880

Yotham Eshak is the Office of Student Affairs and Resources (OSAS) Intern. In his position, he assists with event tracking and data collection, contributes to the development of web content, and collaborates with Running Start to create OSAS-related marketing content. He also provides on-site support at events hosted by OSAS throughout the year.

Yotham is currently working towards a Master of Music degree in clarinet performance. Prior to attending MSU, Yotham served as an Assistant Hall Director at Texas Christian University, completed an internship with the TCU Summer Music Institute, held a private studio across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, and has worked as a marching band technician and masterclass instructor. Additionally, he has performed with the North Texas Symphony and various Texas based theatre companies as a pit orchestra musician.

206 Music Practice Building
Email: eshakyot@msu.edu
Fax: 517-432-2880