BSU Professor Presents Research on Socially Engaged Art Funded by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

Dr. Thelma Thomas Daley Endowed Chair Provided $200,000 Support

MEDIA CONTACT: David Thompson, dlthompson@bowiestate.edu, 301-860-4311

(BOWIE, Md.) – Gina Lewis, an associate professor of art, won a two-year $200,000 Dr. Thelma T. Daley Distinguished Professor Endowed Chair Award last summer from Delta Sigma Theta Sorority (DST), Inc., and presented an update on her research last week to leaders of the organization.   Dr. Daley, a Bowie State alumna and members of the sorority attended the event to recognize the research work Lewis is conducting to develop a concentration in socially engaged art, and arts-based research within studio arts in the Department of Fine and Performing Arts.  

The concentration, when approved, will include exposing students to interdisciplinary ways of thinking to enable them to conceive creative projects that have a positive and indelible impact on social issues. Dr. Daley, a long-time social activist, has made countless contributions to elevate the concerns of school counselors and women. 

Throughout her illustrious career, Daley has served as the president of five national organizations including the American Counseling Association, American School Counselor Association, the American Personnel & Guidance Association, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and the National Council of Negro Women. 

“I was honored to know that Dr. Daley, an internationally known civic leader, came back to her alma mater to show support for me and the award that bears her name,” said Professor Lewis. “The courses that I’m developing with faculty members from other disciplines will be open to all students at Bowie State who want to gain a better understanding of the skills necessary to use art as an agent of social change.” 

“Bowie State University is a higher education gem that has endless possibilities,” said Daley. “The spirit of the school will never be broken.”  

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