Dr. Tom Ruscica Appointed as Dean of the School of Music

Posted on July 01, 2026

Dr. Tom Ruscica Appointed as Dean of the School of Music

LAKEWOOD, Colo. - Colorado Christian University has appointed Dr. Tom Ruscica as Dean of the School of Music, effective July 1, 2026. An accomplished conductor, educator, and academic administrator, Ruscica brings more than two decades of experience preparing students for lives of artistic achievement, Christian leadership, and vocational impact.

Ruscica joins CCU from William Jessup University, where he most recently served as Associate Dean for the School of Business, Humanities, and the Arts and Lead Faculty for the music degree program. Since 2003, he has directed the university's acclaimed University Choir & Orchestra, leading nearly 30 performances annually while mentoring generations of student musicians in both artistry and Christ-centered service. As dean, he will oversee CCU's music and theatre programs, providing academic and artistic direction while investing in the next generation of Christian performers, educators, and artists.

"Dr. Ruscica is an exceptional educator whose passion for Christ, commitment to academic excellence, and heart for students make him an outstanding addition to Colorado Christian University," said Dr. David Corbin, CCU Provost. "He understands that music and theatre education are about much more than performance. They are about forming students who pursue excellence, serve the Church, enrich their communities, and faithfully use their gifts to glorify God. We are excited to welcome him to our academic leadership team."

Throughout his career, Ruscica has created transformational opportunities that challenge students artistically, spiritually, and professionally. Most recently, he led music students and alumni on an international concert and recording tour that included performances throughout England, Belgium, and France, culminating in a professional recording session at London's famed Abbey Road Studios. The experience exemplified his commitment to providing students with meaningful, world-class opportunities that prepare them to lead and serve through the arts.

Ruscica has also served as a guest conductor for multiple Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) honor ensembles and is widely respected for preparing students for lives of ministry, service, education, and professional performance.

"The arts have a unique ability to communicate truth, beauty, and the hope of the Gospel in ways few other disciplines can," said CCU President Eric Hogue. "At Colorado Christian University, we are committed to preparing students to pursue excellence in their craft while faithfully using their gifts to influence culture for Christ. Dr. Ruscica shares that conviction. His passion for developing students as musicians and ambassadors for Christ makes him an outstanding choice to lead our School of Music."

In Spring 2026, Ruscica was recognized by the California State Assembly for 23 years of service in higher education.

"I am honored to join the Colorado Christian University community," said Ruscica. "CCU's Christ-centered mission and its dedication to preparing students for lives of purpose resonate deeply with my own calling as an educator. I look forward to investing in students as they develop their musical gifts, deepen their faith, and discover how God can use the arts to serve the Church, bless communities, and impact the world."

Ruscica earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music with an emphasis in Music Theory from Azusa Pacific University, followed by a Master of Music in Choral Conducting. He completed his Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting at the University of Nevada, Reno.

In his new role, Ruscica will provide vision and oversight for the School of Music's academic programs, faculty, and students while supporting the University's mission of preparing graduates to impact the world with grace and truth.

About Colorado Christian University

Founded in 1914, Colorado Christian University is the flagship Christian university in the Rocky Mountain region. Located in Lakewood, Colorado, a suburb of Denver, CCU serves more than 17,000 students through its College of Undergraduate Studies, College of Adult and Graduate Studies and CCU Academy, offering more than 200 academic program options on its traditional campus, online, and through dual enrollment programs. Recognized among the top two percent of colleges nationwide for its core curriculum by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, CCU is committed to Christ-centered higher education that transforms students to impact the world with grace and truth. CCU competes in NCAA Division II athletics as a member of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.