Michael Benson

Michael Benson serves as the Executive Director at Richland Academy of the Arts since July 2022. With an extensive background in music education, Michael has been a Professor of Music Emeritus and held various leadership roles at Malone University from August 2011, including Chair of the Department of Music and Chair of the Department of Visual Arts. Michael has been instrumental in directing a workforce of educators, developing strategic roadmaps, and leading talent development initiatives within pre-college programs. Previously, roles included Associate Professor of Music, Faculty Chair, and Assistant Professor of Music, contributing to the education of diverse student populations. Michael also has experience as a member of the Ohio Music Teachers Association and served as a Piano Teacher from 1993 to 2013. Academic qualifications include a BM in Piano Performance from Rice University and both an MM and DMA in Piano Performance from The University of Texas at Austin.