FALL 2024 | TOWER 21 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS Ben Hoffman ’15 M’20&23 distinctly remembers his first experience with teaching as an undergraduate at Kutztown University. “I was a part of a co-teaching opportunity with two other art educators. It was a large display we did with students that was easily 10 feet by 30 feet. It was an awesome co- installation. I just remember feeling really excited about the opportunity to collaborate and make these larger-than-life opportunities for students.” This opportunity only grew Hoffman’s passion for mural art and art education. After graduating with two degrees from KU in art education and fine art, he pursued a career in teaching. In 2016, he became a middle school art teacher in Boston. Later that year, he returned to Kutztown to continue teaching art at Kutztown High School. Hoffman credits his success to the networking opportunities he had as an undergraduate student. “My classes really opened the door for networking,” Hoffman says, noting the relationships he was able to develop with faculty. “I’ve had a lot of opportunities that I wouldn’t have had if I had gone elsewhere.” After returning to Kutztown, Hoffman went on to receive a master’s in art education and a master’s in arts administration from KU. He continued to develop relationships in both master’s programs, which he said gave him a new perspective on teaching. Hoffman credits the entire Art Education department. “Everyone had a pivotal role in my education and made Kutztown home. I even remember the custodian who brought us pretzels in the studio every Friday night,” Hoffman says. “Those are the interactions you don’t realize have a long-lasting impact. These are the people who make this community what it is.” Hoffman now teaches a variety of classes, from photography and ceramics to drawing and painting. He draws his own artistic inspiration from murals, saying he’s always been fascinated by things that are larger than life. “I like the idea of creating conversation and bringing people together,” Hoffman says. After visiting New York in high school, he saw the importance of taking his own students on trips to view art. “Students can really learn and hear from each other in the classroom, but there’s so much more that I can’t teach them. You need to be a part of what’s happening around you in the world to absorb and be a contributing member of society.” Hoffman expanded on his personal connection as a volunteer with Kutztown Fire & Rescue by painting a mural on the firehouse. He became a volunteer firefighter in 2010 and has served as president and vice president, as well as on various committees. He viewed the mural as an opportunity to combine his love for art with community service. “To open that opportunity to my students, the first responders, and community members was beautiful. It was just an act of love and community that I feel honored to have been part of. I drive by it every morning and it’s so cool to think about that lasting impact and that legacy I’ve left behind here.” In 2023, Hoffman was a finalist for Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year. While he didn’t win the first-place award, he hopes that his impact extends beyond Kutztown. “My passion lies in advocating for, encourag- ing, and recognizing students and educators across the state,” he says. “I am not sure where this journey will lead me, but I am excited to continue to learn and pay that knowledge forward through colleagues, students and our community.” BY ALEX LYONS ’24 FOR ART IN THE CLASSROOM AND COMMUNITY
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzcxOTE=