Maria Runfola, PhD

Dr. Runfola has devoted more than 55 years to music education—as a public school educator, researcher, faculty member and administrator. Her career is defined not only by longevity but also by innovation and impact.

Early in her career, she collaborated with Edwin E. Gordon on foundational research that shaped the Content Sequences of Music Learning Theory, deepening our understanding of how children develop musical knowledge. She went on to break new ground by applying this theory beyond the classroom—designing music-based toys, some with patented features, and becoming the first to bring Music Learning Theory into the international mass-market toy industry.

Dr. Runfola’s work has consistently expanded access to music and learning. From advancing research on early childhood audiation and vocal development, to leading the creation of New York State arts assessments, she has helped ensure that students have meaningful opportunities to develop and demonstrate their talents. Her commitment to inclusion is equally profound, supporting initiatives that introduced hearing assistive technologies so that individuals with hearing loss can fully experience live music.

Through scholarship, innovation and a deep commitment to learners of all ages, Dr. Runfola has shaped both the theory and practice of music education, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students, educators and researchers.

During her tenure as associate dean of academic affairs, she first conceived the program we now know as UB Teach. Her vision laid the foundation for what has since become widely recognized as a gold standard in teacher preparation.