Katy George Becomes New Chair for Art Department at Panhandle State

Oklahoma Panhandle State University is proud to announce that Katy George is the new chair of the Art Department. George is an Art instructor in Hesper Hall and a Panhandle State alumni.

George graduated from OPSU in 2013 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in painting. She is currently pursuing her Master of Fine Arts at West Texas A&M University.

Before teaching at Panhandle State, George worked as an art teacher at Spearman High School. She joined the faculty at OPSU in 2021 as an art instructor and has been a valuable department member ever since.

Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Theresa Billiot, stated, “Katy’s passion for teaching and desire to inspire young artists speaks through all that she does in the Art Department. She is very meticulous, creative, and personable. Her strategic and forward-thinking leadership will evaluate our art program and make it become more regionally and nationally well-known.”

As chair of the art department, George will oversee the curriculum and ensure that students receive a well-rounded education in the visual arts. She will also work closely with faculty members to develop new programs and initiatives to enhance the department’s reputation and attract talented artists to the university.

“I am honored and excited to take on the role of the Art Department Chairperson at Panhandle State. I vividly remember living on campus as a child, playing in the courtyard with my younger brother, and making ceramics with my father in the art department,” George said. “These pivotal moments in my life fostered a deep love of the arts and for this university. My years as an art student at OPSU only strengthened those sentiments. With great pride as alumnus, I’m passionate about helping grow this department so current and future students can explore their artistic talents and fully develop their skills to become the next generation of successful artists from Oklahoma Panhandle State University.”

In her new role as art department chair, George is committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where students can thrive and develop their artistic talents. She believes art can transform lives and hopes to instill this passion in her students.