by Dr. Chad Davidson
Most of you know of the great work done in the College of Arts and Humanities. Maybe you have seen a student-run theatre performance at the Townsend Center or taken in a concert in the wonderful Kathy Cashen Recital Hall. (I was there just last night for the Wright Scholars Concert, and you have not lived until you have heard Bach played masterfully on marimba.) Perhaps you have attended one of the fantastic juried art shows, where the best of student art across campus is not only displayed but also for sale? (The 2014 show, by the way, is opening March 5, at 6 p.m., in the Bobick Gallery.) And maybe you have picked up a copy of our Eclectic art and literary magazine, winner of the prestigious Director’s Prize from the Associated Writing Programs (the most prestigious award of its kind in the nation), which features the best of student art, poetry, essays, fiction, music, film and much more.
How many of you, though, realize that COAH also sends dozens of students abroad each summer (to France, Germany, Italy, Cost Rica, London and the list goes on and on) to study and immerse themselves in the local culture? How many of you know that we send even more of our students to local, regional and even national conferences to present their original creative and critical work? (I have three students attending national undergraduate research conferences this spring alone.) How many of you know that Pulitzer prize-winning poets and novelists have read on our campus or that the college will be hosting a huge environmental awareness week this fall, at which we will reveal all sorts of new initiatives aimed at greening our campus and improving sustainability? The point is, one person cannot possibly keep abreast of the myriad possibilities for activism, inspiration and entertainment provided by our college. We’re simply too good at what we do, overly productive, you might say. (Allow me that moment of boasting.)
What we seek, though, are willing partners, collaborators in our community who understand the deep links between the kinds of quality education and experience our programs provide and the future success of our students and the communities in which they will ultimately reside. Our COAH Patron’s Program is your opportunity to get involved, to collaborate, to declare that our College and its mission is valuable. Take a look at the various levels of giving. Even the most modest of gifts pays large dividends down the road. More immediately, however, it allows us to continue with the high quality events, performances, and student-centered programs over which we preside. If you have enjoyed a play or a saxophone ensemble or an iron pour at the new Visual Arts Building—if you have taken part in one of the many college-sponsored events, then this is your chance to show your appreciation. We would love to have you aboard.
Dr. Chad Davidson is the director of the UWG School of the Arts.
