President's Message

Feeding the mind, body and spirit

Brenau University long has echoed many of the themes of the Renaissance period: intellectual accomplishment; appreciation of artistic expression; and a curriculum of liberal arts, scientific inquiry and global awareness. This fusion of science and the arts makes Brenau unique.

The arts have always been an integral part of the educational and cultural life of Brenau, and the extensive permanent art collection started in 1986 by President John S. Burd is a point of pride for the university.

The stories in the spring 2023 edition of Brenau Window – the arts and entertainment issue – depict the long history of artistic expression at the university and showcase the expertise of our alumni, faculty and students.

From our cover story about rising comedy star Dulcé Sloan to a celebration of 47 years of WBCX, Brenau is synonymous with the arts. Here, young artists hone their talents and, rather than simply dreaming of success, they have embodied the Brenau ideal “to find joy in doing.”

Along this journey of self-discovery, they are guided and supported by faculty members who are tremendously talented in their own right. Gay Hammond has been involved with the theater program for decades and has written and adapted many of the works performed. Madia Cooper-Ashirifi, Ann Austin Johnson Outstanding Faculty Award winner in 2022, returned to her alma mater to lead the dance program.

Across disciplines, we have many talented students who are preparing themselves to live extraordinary lives of personal and professional fulfillment. A college education is life-changing for so many students. Those students who have long sought outlets for their passion in the arts also find their Brenau degree is the culmination of a dream – and provides the knowledge and expertise they need to achieve that dream.

Senior vocalist Amelia Lathem has known since childhood that she wanted to spend her life bringing music to the world. Studio art major Gaby Perez uses art to express herself – despite a visual impairment. Brenau didn’t create the talent these young women share, but has prepared them for a lifetime of intellectual accomplishment and appreciation of artistic expression. Each of them has been so inspired by their experiences with the faculty at Brenau that they plan to pursue their art and teach after graduation.

Like me, I know you’ll also be inspired by the project between faculty and students from fashion design and occupational therapy to create adaptive clothing for real-world clients. It is another great example of how Brenau serves our students and the community.

Feeding the mind, body and spirit through the arts and sciences – that is our goal and our dedication to our students and the community.

Anne A. Skleder, Ph.D. President