6 TOWER | FALL 2023 First African American graduate presented KU President’s Medal Bessie Reese Crenshaw ’50, Kutztown University's first African American graduate, was recently presented with the President's Medal. Crenshaw graduated from Reading High School in 1946 and enrolled in Kutztown State Teachers’ College that fall; she was the only Black student enrolled at the time. In 1950, she graduated with a bachelor of science degree in education. “When I entered Kutztown more than 70 years ago, I didn’t do it to be a maverick or a trailblazer – I did it because I saw education as the key to my future,” Crenshaw said. “I was willing to go to any lengths to pursue my dream of teaching, even if it meant feeling uncomfortable for a while. Many of the important things we accomplish in life do not come easy. Who I am and what I’ve accomplished is the sum of my experiences, along with the support of my friends and family. Attending Kutztown is part of my legacy.” NEWS NOTES Five art educators selected for leadership program Four Kutztown University alumni and a KU professor participated in last year’s School for Art Leaders program, sponsored by the National Art Education Association. Of the 25 people selected for the program from over 70 applicants, four were KU alumni – Leigh Drake ’09, M’16; Justin Sutters ’98, M’06 (pictured in front); Evan Thomas ‘08; and Ben Hoffman ’15, M’20&23 (middle). They were joined by Dr. Amy Pfeiler-Wunder (center back), professor of art education and interim associate dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. The seven-month program uses experiential learning and indepth conversations with experts to provide participants with skills that will position them to lead in any environment. The program includes a five-day intensive learning experience onsite at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Ark., followed by online virtual learning modules and a capstone project presented at the annual convention this past April in San Antonio, Texas.
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