Brad Eden

Brad Eden

Class Year

’82

Current home

Valparaiso, Indiana

Major(s)

Religion and Music

Current Position

Dean of Library Services at the University of Valparaiso

After graduating from Carthage in 1982 with a double major in religion and music, Brad Eden headed to Indiana State University to earn his master’s degree in musicology. But his education didn’t stop there. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in musicology from the University of Kansas, and then a master’s degree in library science from the University of North Texas.

Mr. Eden is now the dean of library services at the University of Valparaiso — one of eight academic deans at the university. In his role, he supervises 10 faculty librarians along with a number of staff and students in the Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources.

“I have enjoyed the opportunity to be involved in the changing landscape of information resources and unique information collections,” he said. “I also enjoy working with creative faculty and students at the University of Valparaiso.”

Mr. Eden has edited and published a number of books. His most recent publications include “Iterative Strategic Planning: Lessons Learned in the Trenches” and “Data Visualization Activities at a Small, Private Midwest University.”

He is a member of the Association of College and Research Libraries, the Association for Library Collections and Technical Services, the American Library Association, and the Library and Information Technology Association.

Mr. Eden said his time at Carthage gave him a well-rounded education and broadened his views — helping him to adapt successfully to the many technological changes and adaptations in information resources he has faced in his career.

“I learned how to view people’s perspectives and viewpoints from many angles, without rushing to judgment.”

Brad Eden, ’82

What have you enjoyed most about your career?

“I have enjoyed the opportunity to be involved in the changing landscape of information resources and unique information collections. I also enjoy working with creative faculty and students at the University of Valparaiso.”

How did Carthage prepare you?

“The many music and J-Term experiences, as well as the religious experiences, prepared me for my career as the dean of library services. These were exciting opportunities that I used to assist my graduate work. For instance, my J-Term at the Trappist Monastery in Bardstown, Kentucky, helped me with my master’s thesis on music since Vatican II. I also enjoyed putting together a production of ‘Godspell’ with fellow students, and visiting Europe on tour with the Carthage Choir.”

How has your liberal arts education benefitted you?

“I learned how to view people’s perspectives and viewpoints from many angles, without rushing to judgment.”


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