Megan Franke

Megan Franke, originally from Fargo, North Dakota, earned her bachelor’s degrees in Vocal Performance and Music Education from the University of Mary. She furthered her studies with a master’s degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Her diverse performance experience spans opera, jazz, and musical theatre.

Moving into a new role in 2024, Megan is now Director of Development at the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts. Since 2007, Megan has served as the Director of Vocal Activities and Music Conservatory Chairperson at the acclaimed Las Vegas Academy of the Arts, a 12-time Grammy-winning institution. Under her leadership, the Vocal Department has seen significant growth, more than doubling in size and scope. Her ensembles have achieved national recognition, performing alongside renowned artists such as Hugh Jackman, Wayne Newton, Foreigner, Andre Rieu, Kenny Ortega, and the Broadway cast of Memphis. They have also appeared on national television during high-profile events like the 2022 NFL Draft, the 2022 Raiders Season home opener, the 2023 NFL Pro-Bowl and Barry Manilow’s 2023 NBC Holiday Special, “A Very Barry Christmas”. 

On campus, she has been actively involved as Gala Co-chair in 2017 and has held the role of entertainment chair since 2018. She also contributes to various committees, including the Arts Schools Network Committee, Magnet Schools of America Committee, Branding Committee, and Arts Integration Committee.

Over her 18-year career, Megan was named the Region VIII Magnet Schools of America Teacher of the Year in 2018, a Kiwanis Teacher of the Year Finalist in 2018, a 3-time UNLV Teacher Recognition Award Recipient, and a 5-time finalist for the Heart of Education Awards. Megan also completed her National Board Certification in Secondary Vocal Music Education in 2017 and her Maintenance of Certification in 2021. 

Beyond her work at the Academy, Megan has held several significant positions in the choral community over the years. She has served as the Women’s Choir Repertoire and Standards Chair for the Nevada chapter of the American Choral Directors Association, the Clark County School District Honor Choir Chairperson, the Nevada All-State Choral Co-Chairperson and Vocal Clinic Coordinator for the Nevada Music Educators Association. Additionally, she was the Secretary of the Western Region of the National Association of Teachers of Singing and Co-Coordinator of the MET in the Schools program for the Clark County School District. Her commitment to music education and her active involvement in various music organizations underscore her dedication to advancing the field and nurturing the next generation of musical talent.