Music Institute of Chicago Announces Clem Leek as New Senior Director of Academic Operations

The Music Institute of Chicago is proud to celebrate longtime staff and faculty member Clem Leek on his recent promotion to Senior Director of Academic Operations.

In his expanded role, Clem will continue as Campus Director in Winnetka while also leading enrollment, recruitment, and retention efforts across all campuses. He will supervise campus directors and oversee data-driven strategies to support student success and uphold MIC’s high academic standards.

This new position marks a meaningful milestone in Clem’s nearly eight-year journey with the Music Institute of Chicago, which began in 2017 when he joined the team as an administrative assistant at the Lake Forest and Lincolnshire campuses. In 2019, he became Campus Director of both locations, and in 2021, he assumed the role of Winnetka Campus Director.

With a background in voice and theater, eleven years of piano lessons, five years of violin, and experience with a variety of instruments, Clem brings a personal understanding of the student experience.

“This has all contributed to my understanding of the day-to-day of taking music lessons and what it's like to be in the room as a student,” he shares.

“I love working with students to help with their creativity, and all of my various experiences have helped me to connect with everyone in the MIC community. Music really is a language all in itself.”

Reflecting on his most meaningful memories during his time at MIC, he spoke warmly about the relationships he's made within the community.

“The beautiful thing about a community music school is that not only do we have a mission, but I have met wonderful colleagues who have become friends while practicing what we believe in,” he reflected.

“Supporting each other is a key component of what we do, and that can't be done without compassion and understanding. As my time at MIC becomes longer, the life events I share with people continue to grow. These events can be musical or otherwise, and this trust allows me to work closely with everyone, and in turn are deeply meaningful.”

When asked what has kept him part of the MIC community for so many years, Clem points to both the people and the purpose.

“I also finally feel like I can make a tangible difference. In the other music work that I do, while I love it, the MIC is more about the real everyday experiences, enabling everyone's strengths,
setting the tone through example and creating a unique environment for music education for all ages!”

As he steps into his new role, he hopes to continue supporting and shaping the MIC community by strengthening connections and enriching the student experience.

“I want to concentrate on being a touch point for all that need it, not only for students and families, but also for colleagues.

Growing the understanding of how our magnificent faculty are serving our community and enhancing the sense of who we are as an organization through the amazing team we have.

I hope as I continue in this position the overall experience for students continues to improve, and I am excited to work more closely with all the campuses.”

Please join us in congratulating Clem on this well-earned promotion!