According to Clarion University undergraduate catalog data, J. Rex Mitchell was a faculty member in the Music Department from 1966-1989. He served at the rank of Assistant Professor from 1974 to 1982; at the rank of Associate Professor from 1982 to 1985; and later became a full professor. He served as department chairperson from 1982-1992. He received his B.S. from Muskingum College; his M.E.M. from Kent State University; his Ed.D from Pennsylvania State University; and did additional graduate work at the University of Michigan.