The UMMB family is proud to congratulate UMass alumna and former member of the UMass Tuba section, Dr. Michelle Bell, on her appointment as Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Akron.
A graduate of UMass Amherst, Bell built a strong foundation as a student musician before pursuing advanced study and a career in collegiate music education. Most recently, she completed her Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Illinois, further establishing herself as a rising leader in the field.
As Director of Athletic Bands, Bell will oversee Akron’s athletic band programs, including the marching band and pep bands, while helping create meaningful musical experiences for students and audiences alike.
Her appointment marks another exciting milestone in a career dedicated to music, education, and student success. It also continues the tradition of UMMB alumni making an impact at colleges and universities across the country.
With UMass and Akron set to become Mid-American Conference rivals in 2025, Minutemen fans may soon find a familiar face on the opposite sideline.
Congratulations, Dr. Bell, on this well-deserved achievement. We look forward to seeing all that you accomplish at Akron—and we’ll see you in the MAC!