Dean | Cab Calloway School of the Arts

Dean Anthony Bolden is a visionary leader entering his fourth year at Cab Calloway School of the Arts, bringing 24 years of experience in education. His leadership is marked by a steadfast commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion in schools with attention to the individuality of each member. Dean Bolden is dedicated to advocating for innovative arts education that meets the diverse needs of students, ensuring they have the tools to excel both artistically and academically.

A proud alumnus of the Girard Academic Music Program, a performing arts magnet school in Philadelphia, PA, Dean Bolden’s early education was shaped by the integration of academic rigor and musical excellence. As a vocal major and Double Bass musician, he values the amazing experiences he had at G.A.M.P. which included performances with the Philadelphia Orchestra and Philadelphia Singers.  His performances at iconic venues like Notre Dame Cathedral in Montreal, the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia, and the finale of the 6 ABC Thanksgiving Parade on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum underscore his deep-rooted understanding of the value of an art-infused education.

Dean Bolden continued his academic journey on an athletic scholarship at West Chester University, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice. He was inducted into the WCU Basketball Hall of Fame and enjoyed a brief semi-professional basketball career before working with adjudicated youth and students with specialized needs. He earned a K-12 Special Education Certificate from Immaculata College, a Master of Education Degree in Curriculum Instruction from Penn State University, and an Educational Leadership Certification, along with an advanced degree from Liberty University. Currently, he is pursuing a Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership, underscoring his dedication to lifelong learning and advancing the field of arts education.

Dean Bolden is an active contributor to the Arts School Network as a Board of directors and a passionate advocate for increased accessibility to arts education. His vision for CCSA includes creating opportunities for creators to see themselves as entrepreneurs, elevating the existing programming to provide robust art integration experiences, and create access for all students to enjoy the gift of an art infused education that will prepare our students to become innovative global leaders.    

Beyond his professional life, Dean Bolden enjoys spending time with his family. He is an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated, enjoys singing, playing the piano, deep-sea fishing, bird watching, solving puzzles, and reading the Bible.