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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Nathan Walker is the Program Coordinator and Career Consultant for the College of Music Running Start Office. He helps plan and execute career programming, including co-presenting career-related content in courses and workshops; manages the College of Music’s experiential learning programs, including the student Gigline and internship placements; advises students on career exploration and professional development; spearheads social media and digital marketing efforts to enhance student engagement in career education and arts entrepreneurship.

208 Music Practice Building

(517) 432-7371 (Office)

Sign Up for an Advising Appointment via Handshake

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