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T E A C H I N G E X C E L L E N C ETeaching Excellence“Hiring faculty who areworking artists, designers, arthistorians and art educatorsis part of Moore’s promise toeducate students for inspiringcareers in the visual arts.”This past spring, I announced my intention to resign in May 2012 atthe end of this academic year. As this final year as president of Moorebegins, I look back to my arrival twelve years ago. When I came toMoore as the ninth president of the College, there were opportunitiesalong with challenges. I am pleased to say that thanks to the efforts of adedicated team of faculty, staff, board and alumnae, many dreams andgoals have been achieved.Having been a professor at Temple University for 20 years, I know thatexcellence in teaching is the cornerstone of any academic institution.So announcing the first endowed professorship for the College wasa special pleasure. At the BFA Commencement May 15, 2011, ThePenny and Bob Fox Distinguished Professorship was awarded for thefirst time to Moe Brooker, Professor and Chair of Foundation.Professor Brooker exemplifies excellence in his teaching, his artistic practice, and hisservice to the arts community. He challenges students through example, leadership andhard work to pursue their own artistic vision and dreams. Earlier this spring, we had theopportunity to acknowledge another outstanding faculty member: Assistant Professorof Illustration Rich Harrington, who was recognized with the Lindback DistinguishedTeaching Award. Moe Brooker and Rich Harrington are only two examples of the manyexcellent dedicated teachers who challenge their students and lead by example as workingprofessionals in their fields.Hiring faculty who are working artists, designers, art historians and art educators is partof Moore’s promise to educate students for inspiring careers in the visual arts. Facultyinvestment in the success of our students underscores this commitment. Moore’s smallcollege advantage means that students build strong ties with faculty, staff and peers,and that students benefit from mentoring that continues long after graduation. Moorealumnae continue to be part of a strong network of support as they develop theirprofessional careers.Moore’s focused investment in academic excellence while also addressing fierce economicdynamics has been a challenge. We have met our goal of academic excellence by workingas a team to decrease administrative costs and expand student financial aid. The goal is tokeep a Moore education as affordable as possible while keeping our eyes laser-focused onteaching excellence.Happy Craven Fernandez,President2MOORE