Future Former Alumni Panel & Celebration
On view in the U-M Art & Architecture building through February 9, 2018, Future Former is an exhibition of alumni work curated by Stamps Professor Franc Nunoo-Quarcoo with alumna Emily Schumer (BFA 2017). On Monday, January 29, the Stamps School presented a panel discussion featuring four Stamps alumni participants in the Future Former exhibition.
The panel included photographer and fashion designer Janna Coumoundouros (BFA 1998); ceramicist and business owner Nawal Motawi (BFA 1988); retired public school teacher Robin Wilt (BFA 1971); and Saginaw Valley State University professor Matthew Zivich (BSDes 1960). Moderated by John Luther, Career Devolvement Coordinator at Stamps, the panelists spoke about their time studying art and design at U-M and how that education was put into practice over the course of their careers.
All four panelists agreed that the alumni network of the University of Michigan is a great way to make connections and pursue internships, jobs, and business contacts. “I wish I had gone to events like this when I was here,” remarked Coumoundourus. The panelists agreed: some of their fondest memories of Stamps were times they attended events outside of the classroom.
Moderator John Luther, Career Devolvement Coordinator at Stamps, made it clear that the panelists and all Stamps alumni want to assist Stamps students in their career goals. “These people want to help you,” said Luther to the audience. “Creative people tend to be especially giving of their time and resources and there are a lot of Stamps alumni out there.”
After the panel discussion, Luther noted how much he values having events with Stamps alumni. “I am very fortunate to work with an alum population that is so willing to connect with students in person, via email, on the phone, etc. It is such a daily pleasure to work with some of the most talented and giving people you will ever want to meet.”
The panel took place in Stamps Auditorium from 5-5:45 pm. Afterwards, the panelists, faculty, staff, students, and members of the general public enjoyed an exhibition reception for Future Former at the Art & Architecture building. For students interested in professional networking, it was a perfect opportunity to connect with a room willing, eager, and excited to help.
Future Former: An Exhibition of Alumni Work is available for viewing from Monday, January 8 - Friday, February 9, 2018.
Title Image: Stamps Dean Guna Nadarajan (L) and Professor Franc Nunoo-Quarcoo (R) join panelists Robin Wilt, Matthew Zivich, Janna Coumoundouros, and Nawal Motawi.