A Little Paws, A Lot of Harmony

When Lecturer of Music Joni Pappas walks the halls of the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music, she is often joined by a small, wagging shadow: Clara Belle Pappas, the college’s HABIT-dog-in-training and endearingly referred to as the “special assistant to the dean.” Clara Belle, who is named after composer Clara Schumann, serves as a calming and joyful presence for students who are navigating the pressures of rehearsals, performances, and academic life. Clara’s mission is simple yet meaningful. She offers unconditional love and spreads joy to the students, faculty, and staff at the college, as well as to anyone she meets who walks through the building or encounters her around campus during a stroll or meeting. Her gentle energy supports the college’s focus on well-being, community, and compassionate learning. 

Pappas has seen firsthand how powerful that presence can be. 

“Clara is loving and cuddly, and she can also be goofy and playful. Her favorite activity is to play fetch or catch bubbles, and students light up when they see her. I hear all the time that spending a few minutes with her is exactly what they need, especially when they feel stressed about a test, overwhelmed by a busy day, or in need of a simple pick me up,” said Pappas. 

As Clara Belle continues her training, her reach will soon extend beyond the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music. Once she passes her HABIT test through the UT College of Veterinary Medicine, she will also be able to visit children at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, where Pappas works as a music therapist. This next step will allow Clara to share the comfort she brings on campus with young patients who can benefit just as deeply.