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ith the recent opening of the newly renovated Swisher
Theatre at Jacksonville University and new programs being initiated by Bill Hill, dean of the College of Fine Arts, the college is experiencing a rebirth of sorts. With the emerging graphic design program, esteemed glassblowing program, and criticallyacclaimed faculty, the college is looking back over its first 45 years and honoring one of their own.
The stars truly did come out for the 45th Anniversary of the College of Fine Arts to honor JU Chancellor Emeritus Frances Bartlett Kinne, Ph.D., former dean of Fine Arts and former president of JU. Past and present Jacksonville politicians and notable people in the fine arts world paid special tribute to Kinne, making the evening one to remember. Special guest Roger Williams, one of the most popular pianists in America, performed during the program. The event, held in the ballroom at the new Main Library in downtown Jacksonville, was hosted by two JU alums who have close ties to Kinne – Hollywood producer Frank Pace ’73 and actor Jay Thomas ’72. Pace commented, “Dr. Kinne is the face of JU. Her legacy and love of the university is something that everyone associated with JU should strive to honor.” When Kinne first came to JU, she was hired as a part-time humanities professor. She quickly won over the hearts and minds of students, faculty and administration and said with a trademark smile on her face, “I could never say ‘no’ if someone needed something.” With no intention to become Fine Arts dean, Kinne agreed to accept the position on a six month trail basis. She grew to love the job and was delighted to see progress, growth and development in the college. During her tenure in the 1970s, the College of Fine Arts hosted celebrities such as Duke Ellington, The Fifth Dimension, Linus Pauling and Bob Hope. “I didn’t have to pay them a dime either,” quipped Kinne. Kinne remembers a time when there was no dance major, and only a fledgling music program. But today both programs are hallmarks of the College of Fine Arts. Surrounded by friends, faculty, students, alumni and celebrities alike on March 10, Kinne herself was honored as a “hallmark” of JU. Story by Casey Hampton A Special Thanks to JU’s Fine Arts Anniversary Sponsors: The Florida Times-Union, W.W. Gay Mechanical Contractors, Inc., D.F. Miller Development, Mrs. Ruth Conley, Weaver Family Foundation and Bug-Out Services, Inc.
Top: Hill with Kinne. Center: Williams and Kinne in academic regalia after he received an honorary degree. Bottom: (Left) Pace. (Right) Thomas.