Art Professor Honored with Award

link to Press Release

EDSF Excellence in Education Awards at On Demand

On March 23 at this year’s On Demand, Jonathan Gibson, a professor at Xavier University, was honored by the EDSF (Electronic Document Systems Foundation) at their Industry Leaders Reception. He received the EDSF Capstone Excellence in Education Award, Innovation in Education category, presented by InfoPrint Solutions’ own Sandra Zoratti.

Sandra Zoratti and Carrie Murphy of InfoPrint Solutions with award winner Jonathan Gibson, Professor at Xavier University

The Innovation in Education Award honors an international academic institution along with professional organizations for their educational and innovative efforts relating to the document management and graphic communications industry. Based on that description, it’s clear that Jonathan was a perfect candidate.

I’ve been a fan of Jonathan’s work for five years.  His techniques for teaching allow students to truly grow and expand their horizons.  Students demonstrate their accomplishments at the end of their senior year through a student produced show, in gallery format, on Xavier’s campus.  The level of expertise and creativity expressed in their work is remarkable.  It is clear that they have been challenged academically and aesthetically by Jonathan and will thrive when stepping out into the working world.

Jonathan’s program at Xavier University’s College of Arts and Science focuses on small class sizes, group learning environments, foundational skills and the importance of a Liberal Arts education for artists. Intentionally smaller class sizes allow for the development of curriculum designed for each student’s interests and career goals. Students who advance from this course are well rounded and are able to draw upon a diverse intellectual background to generate unique visual solutions.

Jonathan said, “This award validates past hard work but, more importantly, I am motivated to develop an even better future for our department and students.”

Jonathan currently teaches Graphic Design, Photography, and 2D Design at Xavier University, with a research focus in Web Design. He received his BFA from Brigham Young University and his MFA in Painting from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York.   Aside from these credentials, Jonathan started his own ceramics and photography businesses. He believes that creative cross-training is critical in becoming successful artists, designers and individuals. Community engaged service drives much of his scholarly interests and teaching.