The University Libraries co-sponsored a VIP reception event to showcase the many partnerships between the University Libraries and the College of Fine and Applied Arts and the Hayes School of Music.
Donors and VIPs were invited to a reception held in the Holmes Convocation Center in which several student projects were showcased and on display during the event. The projects demonstrated the creative ways librarians and faculty work together to improve the student experience.
During her remarks, Dean Polanka spoke about collaboration between Dr. Adam Kossler and the University Libraries’ Ophee Collection that has become part of Dr. Kossler’s curriculum. The Matanya Ophee Collection, a world renowned classical guitar music collection, was acquired by the University Libraries in 2021. Damon Chrismon, a graduate student in the Hayes School of Music performed a score from the collection.
On display in the event space were art projects in collaboration with Erin Ethridge, Art Department Foundations Class. Ethridge, project coordinator, asked students to use the Belk Library as a canvas for their projects, allowing students to design for specific spaces with their “Dream Cities” project.
The event space also displayed a collaboration between Brian Davies and the students in Interior Design 2110 and 3320 who worked with the Libraries as clients this semester, translating our data and research into ideas for the Library of future at App State.
Dean Polanka also spoke about collaborating with Communications Faculty including Dr. Shanshan Lou, who worked with the University Libraries to preserve the print and online collections of the Appalachian Student Newspapers. Copies of the Appalachian newspapers were featured in the room. Dean Polanka also thanked Dr. Ashley Han, who allowed her research methods class to review and critique the Libraries student survey. The survey provided constructive feedback that is essential in future planning.
Dean Polanka remarked on her personal collaboration with Dr. Anthony Wilson, the director of the ADM Fashion Showcase. Dean Polanka announced the outfit she was wearing was created for her by Dr. Wilson. She then shared with Dr. Wilson, an archival box which will become the start of the Dr. Anthony Wilson Papers in the University Archives at Appalachian State University.
“Dr. Anthony Wilson has left a lasting impression on Appalachian State University with his talent, his passion, and his unwavering support of his students. The University Libraries are honored to be the repository of record of his hard work and dedication.” said Dean Polanka.
Dean James Douthit gave a toast on the importance of creativity and collaborations between HSOM, CFAA, and the University Libraries. He thanked all the attendees for their commitment to interdisciplinary arts education and supporting our students pursuing the arts as a profession. After a toast from Dean James Douthit the group then moved to the VIP seating for the Fashion Showcase.
Photos: Associate Dean Veronica Wells, Dean Sue Polanka, Associate Dean Molly Keener; reception guests; Dean Sue Polanka speaking
Dean Sue Polanka on the runway
