The Art of Creating Opportunities

As a social sciences major at Park University, Dean Larrick, ’53, may not have pictured a future as a patron of the arts.

After graduating from Park, Larrick served in the U.S. Army, earned a master’s degree in political science and enjoyed a career as a personnel professional for the federal government. Larrick’s work included interviewing college students for various government jobs. This underscored the value of the education he received at Park.

“A liberal arts education gives you an intellectual foundation for life,” Larrick said. “As a Park graduate, I had the broad knowledge that would prepare me for the technical aspects of any profession.”

One highlight of Larrick’s education at Park University was an art appreciation course taught by Vincent Campanella, professor emeritus of art (he passed away in 2001) who founded the University’s fine art program and is the namesake of Park’s Campanella Gallery, located in Norrington Center on the University’s flagship in Parkville (Mo.) Campus. That early interest in art evolved into a passion for watercolor painting. Larrick became an especially prolific painter after retirement. Some of his paintings are featured in this Impact Report.

Larrick’s financial contributions to Park took an artistic turn as well. He had been giving to areas of greatest need and established a scholarship for student leaders, wanting to make a direct impact on students. He also began donating to Park’s fine art program as another way to benefit students directly. According to Andrea Lee, Ph.D., associate professor of art and design and director of the Campanella Gallery, the impact of Larrick’s support cannot be overstated.

Larrick’s annual contributions have enabled the fine art program to purchase items not covered by the University’s operating budget, including storage lockers for art supplies, up-to-date safety equipment, iPads for teaching digital art techniques, cameras that students were previously required to purchase themselves, display pedestals for the Campanella Gallery and a replacement for a pottery kiln that was beyond repair. Each purchase has made an immediate impact and will continue to benefit students for years to come.

“Our students haven’t met Mr. Larrick, but they all know who he is. His generosity is on display in every room.” Lee said.

Park University’s fine art program provides an art foundation for undergraduate students majoring in fine art, art education, graphic design and interior design. Fine art majors complete studio coursework in painting, drawing, ceramics, fiber or sculpture. In addition, the department’s art history courses serve students across the disciplines.

Larrick exemplifies a similar form of giving. By thoughtfully identifying an area of need, he has created new experiences and opportunities for Park University students.