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Joan deJong to be honored with 2016 Educator Award

July 12, 2016

Joan deJong, assistant dean of the College of Liberal Arts and associate professor of art at the University of Southern Indiana, will be honored with the 2016 Educator Award presented by the Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana. The Arts Council's annual Arts Awards honor individuals, groups and institutions that have made significant contributions to the advancement of the arts in Evansville and the surrounding counties. 

deJong's passion for teaching and dedication to nurturing the talent, creativity and potential of her students, whose lives she has touched as a teacher as well as a mentor, is what made her the ideal candidate. Her progressive voice in art education has made a strong impact on her students, as well as the local community.Many of her students have gone on to admirable careers as professional artists, educators and designers-e nriching the arts community and visually transforming our region.

"Had Joan not convinced me to pursue higher education when she did, and stayed involved in my life for the last 20 years, my life would likely be very different," said Matt Wagner, owner of Matt Wagner Design and a former student of deJong's. "I am proud to have her as a teacher and mentor."

She encourages her students to stay inspired and creative, and to set new limits with their work. "She is a dedicated, diligent and devoted teacher who delights in helpings students develop their design capabilities and expand their creative horizons," said Katie Waters, USI professor of art.

A reception and awards presentation will be held Thursday, August 18, 2016, at the Victory Theatre in downtown Evansville. Tickets are $100 a person, of which $50 is a tax-deductible donation. Theatre Row Sponsorships are also available. For more information, to purchase tickets, or to be listed as a sponsor, call the Arts Council at 812-422-2111.

The full list of winners of the 2016 Arts Awards include:

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