Endowment Established in Honor of Former Art Education Professor

A new scholarship at �� honors the legacy of Dr. Alfred G. Kieselbach and his wife, Mildred A. Kieselbach, by supporting future generations of art education majors.

The Dr. Alfred G. and Mildred A. Kieselbach Endowed Scholarship has been established by their son, Thomas P. Kieselbach, and son-in-law Doug Upshaw, with a mission to uphold the values championed by the Kieselbachs throughout their lives. Dr. Kieselbach served as a faculty member in the School of Art for 23 years and was coordinator of the Art Education Division. He earned emeritus status in 1978, believing deeply in the importance of art in education.

“My father dedicated his professional life to educating art teachers,” Thomas Kieselbach said. “He knew that art was crucial for the development and growth of a child. Art can shape how we see the world and enhance creativity and critical thinking. By creating this scholarship, we’re helping Art Education majors while preserving my parents’ legacies.”

Dr. Alfred Kieselbach's artwork spanned a breadth of mediums, including painting, wood sculptures, furniture making, drawing and ceramics.

"Alfred's range of talent across mediums always impressed me," Doug Upshaw said. "He was always working on a project."

Kent holds special significance for the Kieselbach family. Mildred was born and raised in Kent, and her father, Frank Harsh, was an early faculty member at Kent Normal and a long-standing principal at �� High School. Mildred Kieselbach was active in social services and contributed to the family’s commitment to education and community.

The scholarship will be awarded based on merit, with recipients selected by faculty for their potential, ability and contributions to art education. While financial need will be considered, the focus will be on recognizing students’ achievements.

“Ultimately, we hope this scholarship will assist students in attaining their goals in Art Education and lead to productive careers as art teachers,” Thomas Kieselbach said.

Through this endowment, the Kieselbach family aims to inspire a new generation of educators who will carry forward the values of creativity and critical thinking that Dr. Alfred G. and Mildred A. Kieselbach so passionately advocated.

Support the Endowment

To support the Dr. Alfred G. and Mildred A. Kieselbach Endowed Scholarship and contribute to the future of art education at ��, please consider making a donation. Your support will help cultivate the next generation of art educators and ensure that the Kieselbachs' legacy lives on.

POSTED: Monday, November 4, 2024 03:36 PM

Updated: Monday, November 18, 2024 01:26 PM

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