Victor Brown Endowed Chair in Violin and Professor of Violin Akemi Takayama, D.M.A., was recently appointed assistant provost for inclusion and belonging at Shenandoah University. She succeeds former Associate Professor of Music Therapy Hakeem Leonard, Ph.D., who served as the university’s first ever assistant provost for inclusion, diversity and equity since Fall 2020.

Dr. Takayama will build upon the foundation Dr. Leonard established, developing initiatives to ensure all students, faculty and staff at Shenandoah University feel a sense of belonging in their academic endeavors and have the necessary support to succeed.

“This is a deeply meaningful role, and while I am excited about the opportunity, I also recognize the responsibility it carries,” said Takayama. “As an orchestral musician for more than 20 years, I’ve learned that making music is about listening, adapting and working together. Growing up in Japan, where teamwork is a part of everyday life, I carry that spirit with me into this new role. My hope is to help foster a campus culture where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. I look forward to learning, growing and collaborating with our Shenandoah community.”

A native of Japan, Takayama holds music degrees from the Toho School of Music, the Cleveland Institute of Music and Stony Brook University. She joined the Shenandoah Conservatory faculty in 2007 and is an active performer and arts educator both in Virginia and internationally. She has served on PRIDE (President’s Representatives on Inclusion Diversity and Equity) since 2022 and became co-chair of PRIDE in May 2024. Takayama has also served as a member of the faculty senate and as chair of the University Curriculum Committee (UCC). 

While stepping into this new leadership position, Takayama remains dedicated to teaching and will continue working closely with her violin students as part of her ongoing commitment to education and artistic growth. She will begin this new role on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, and will serve until August 2028.