University of Florida appoints Kevin Robert Orr dean of College of the Arts

Kevin Robert Orr has been appointed dean of the University of Florida College of the Arts, effective July 1.

Orr has served as director of the School of Music since 2015, overseeing 450 music majors and 55 faculty and staff. During his tenure, he launched new graduate and undergraduate degree programs, appointed 37 full-time faculty and staff members and led fundraising efforts that secured nearly $65 million for the renovation and expansion of the music building.

“I am profoundly honored by the opportunity to serve the University of Florida College of the Arts as dean,” Orr said. “The inspiring work of our students, faculty and staff across a wide range of arts and interdisciplinary research positions us well for a future of extraordinary possibilities and deep impact on our community, our state and the world.”

He succeeds Jennifer Setlow, who has served as interim dean since January 2024.

A concert pianist, Orr’s commercial recordings include the complete piano sonatas and ballades of Johannes Brahms and the piano concerto and solo works of Samuel Barber. He has championed contemporary music through premieres and recordings by contemporary composers. A UF Research Foundation Professor, Orr also founded the annual UF International Piano Festival.

Orr holds graduate degrees in performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music at Case Western Reserve University and the Dana School of Music at Youngstown State University, as well as an undergraduate degree in music education.

“Kevin Orr brings exceptional administrative leadership, artistic achievement and a deep commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration,” said Joe Glover, interim provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at UF. “His vision and experience position the College of the Arts to build on its momentum and expand its impact across the university, the state and beyond.”