SUU Alumni at Utah Symphony and Opera
Published: January 23, 2025 | Author: Clare-Estelle Perkins | Read Time: 3 minutes
Southern Utah University (SUU) takes pride in the success of its alumni who continue to make significant contributions to the arts community. Four distinguished alumni, Dallin Mills, Beth Foley, Melissa Robison, and Katie Swainston, now hold important roles at Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO). SUU celebrates these alumni using their education to enhance USUO’s mission of connecting communities through music and the performing arts.
Dallin Mills
Dallin Mills’ journey in the arts began in junior high school, where he discovered his passion for performing in choirs and theater productions. Inspired by his teacher, SUU alum Alyn Bone, Mills pursued a career that combined his love for the arts with a practical approach to business. In 2013 he earned a degree in theatre arts with a minor in business management.
During his time at SUU, Mills honed his skills in stage management, technical theater, and business, preparing him for a career in arts administration. His broad experience, from production management to fundraising, gave him a holistic view of the performing arts industry. Today, Mills serves as a key member of the development team at USUO, focusing on fundraising, database management, and strategic planning.
“SUU helped me try everything and figure out where to focus within my field,” said Mills. “I discovered my strengths and found a sense of purpose in teaching and sharing what I’ve learned to help others succeed in the arts.”
Beth Foley
Beth Foley, a 2022 graduate of SUU’s Master of Fine Arts in Arts Administration program, currently works as the Education Coordinator at USUO. Foley’s career path began with a bachelor’s degree in music education from Utah State University, and her passion for arts administration led her to SUU. In her role, Foley coordinates programs for students and schools, bringing the magic of symphony and opera to young audiences across Utah.
“The most rewarding part of my job is seeing students experience the symphony or opera for the first time,” said Foley. “Their awe and excitement remind me why I love this work.”
Melissa Robison
Robison’s love for the arts began in childhood as she attended the Utah Shakespeare Festival and dreamed of performing on stage. At SUU, she studied under mentors like Charles Metten, the founding dean of the College of Performing and Visual Arts, and Fred Adams, the founder of the Utah Shakespeare Festival, learning to push herself beyond her comfort zone to prepare for a competitive arts career.
Now working in the symphony operations department at USUO, Melissa helps plan events across Utah, including state tours and unique performances in locations like Canyonlands National Park.
“Being part of a team that trusts your voice and appreciates your work is incredible,” said Robison. “It’s an honor to collaborate on projects that bring a level of art you can’t find anywhere else in Utah.”
Robison’s favorite upcoming event is Video Games Live coming Tuesday, April 22, 2025, featuring SUU choir and combining symphonic music with popular video game themes.
“It’s thrilling to see thousands of people enthralled by a genre that bridges the classical and contemporary,” said Robison.
Katie Swainston
Katie Swainston, a graduate of SUU’s MFA in Arts Administration program, works in the development department at USUO. While initially unsure about pursuing fundraising, she discovered a passion for building relationships and advocating for the arts.
“Fundraising isn’t just asking for money; it’s about fostering connections and demonstrating the value of the arts,” Swainston explained.
Her work is vital, as ticket sales cover only a third of the organization’s operating expenses.
Swainston is particularly excited about Holst’s The Planets (An HD Odyssey) coming March 28 and 29, which will feature NASA imagery projected during a live orchestra performance.
“Community connections like this showcase our mission and create unforgettable experiences,” said Swainston.
SUU’s College of Performing and Visual Arts provides exceptional opportunities for students to excel in the arts, blending academic rigor with real-world experience. The gifted professional faculty members are dedicated to teaching and transforming students into professionals themselves. SUU is proud to see its graduates continue to impact their communities and industries, demonstrating innovation, creativity, and a passion for excellence. The Arts Administration Program at Southern Utah University is a proud member of the Association of Arts Administration Educators, a professional organization representing the world's leading arts administration programs.
Tags: Theatre and Dance Utah Alumni Music Community Arts Administration College of Performing and Visual Arts Theatre Dance and Arts Administration
Contact Information:
Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu