Senior Spotlight: Will Emmert
Vocal performance major Will Emmert reflects on the performance opportunities and leadership roles he has had at Meadows, as well as his future career in arts administration.
The next feature in our Senior Spotlight series highlights Will Emmert (B.M. ’25), a vocal performance major with a minor in arts and nonprofit leadership.
During his time at Meadows, Emmert immersed himself in every aspect of the student experience — both on stage and behind the scenes. From lead roles in Chicago, Gianni Schicchi, Oklahoma! and Sweeney Todd to performances across the globe in Dallas, Taos, South Africa, and soon, China, Emmert embraced every opportunity to grow as a performer. He also sang in numerous choir concerts and opera scenes programs, each of which helped him refine his artistry and deepen his love of the performing arts.
“As Ella Fitzgerald said, ‘The only thing better than singing is more singing,’ and at SMU, I have done just that,” Emmert said. “Meadows has given me so much opportunity to create, to lead, and to grow, and my experiences here will not soon be forgotten.”
In addition to his musical studies, Emmert embraced leadership opportunities across campus, holding roles with Meadows Admission, Meadows Marketing, SMU Student Affairs and Student Foundation. These hands-on experiences allowed him to apply what he was learning in the classroom and gain practical skills in communication, organization and collaboration.
Through his dual focus in vocal performance and arts and nonprofit leadership, Emmert found the well-rounded college experience he was looking for — one that nurtured both his artistic growth and his leadership potential. “I can confidently say that through my studies in music and arts and nonprofit leadership, I have expanded my skillset in both areas,” he said.
Emmert also looks back on his time at Meadows with deep appreciation for the people who surrounded him. He credits the music division and Meadows community for shaping his college experience, offering him a network of talented peers, inspiring mentors and lifelong friends. “My time at SMU Meadows has been nothing short of wonderful,” Emmert said. “I have had the privilege of learning alongside some of the most incredibly passionate and talented individuals who are fantastic artists and even better friends.”
After graduation, Emmert will head to New York City to begin his career in arts administration. “Because of my experiences at Meadows, I’m confident in my decision to start a career that combines artistic innovation and strategic thinking to contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and culturally rich society through the arts,” he said.
Congratulations, Will — we can’t wait to see how your voice and vision shape the future of the arts!