Mount students and faculty showcased innovative art education practices, earned scholarship recognition, and demonstrated leadership through presentations and professional collaboration at the statewide conference.
Mount St. Joseph University faculty, students, and novice art educators brought creativity, collaboration, and leadership to the 2026 Ohio Art Education Association (OAEA) Professional Development Conference, held November 5-7 at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Greater Cincinnati. With the theme “Arts in Action,” the conference connected educators through workshops, presentations, artmaking, and recognition of outstanding contributions to art education.
Representing the Mount were Dr. Michaelann Kelley, Associate Professor of Art & Design and Chair of the Department of Creative Arts; Carolyn Althoff, Art Education Program Director and OAEA Higher Education Division Chair; and preservice art educators who shared classroom ideas with colleagues from across Ohio. The students involved were: Lorelai (Rory) Berta, Ellen (EJ) Burke, Vanessa Bodunde, Lex Haffey, Ella Jane (EJ) Kuhnell, Faith Ostertag, Tori Orbegozo, Jordan Tinsley, and Ruby Rosenblum.
Kelley and MSJ preservice art education students Ellen (EJ) Burke, Vanessa Bodunde, Lex Haffey, Faith Ostertag, Jordan Tinsley, and Ruby Rosenblum presented “Getting Your ‘Kicks’ Incorporating Artists and Art History.” Participants designed an original art gym shoe inspired by a master work of art. Combining presentation, sketching, and color theory, the session demonstrated how artists can help students connect art history with their own creative decisions. The adaptable lesson encouraged creativity, critical thinking, and engagement with the region’s arts community.
Althoff also presented “Color, Shape, Identity: Foam Mosaic Portraits” with MSJ students Ella Jane (EJ) Kuhnell, Tori Orbegozo and Lorelai Rory) Berta. Inspired by Winold Reiss’s mosaics at Cincinnati’s Union Terminal, the workshop explored portraiture through color theory, composition, and the elements of art. Participants learned an approach adaptable for students in grades two through nine. Together, these presentations illustrated how the Mount’s preservice educators translate significant regional artworks into accessible classroom experiences.
Kelley joined novice art educators Alyssa McRoberts, Lexi Theuerling, and Mia Smith to present “MSJ JOY.” The session highlighted a research grant from the Ohio Art Education Foundation (OAEF) supporting a learning community designed to strengthen teachers’ visual arts knowledge and skills while addressing professional isolation. Through critical friendship, participants examine teaching experiences, exchange ideas, and reflect together on their practice. The presentation emphasized the value of sustained professional relationships as novice teachers develop confidence and navigate the demands of their classrooms.
MSJ student Carr Smith received a $2,000 Ohio Art Education Foundation scholarship, earning recognition for their preparation for a career in art education. Althoff, serving as OAEA Higher Education Division Chair, presented the scholarship awards alongside Foundation President Suzanne Mitolo. The scholarships support future art educators pursuing licensure and reflect the association’s investment in the next generation of teachers.
The Mount’s student leadership was also visible during the opening morning welcome, presented by Ella Jane (EJ) Kuhnell, OAEA Preservice Division Chair. As Kuhnell concludes her term, Jordan Tinsley was elected to serve as the incoming chair, continuing MSJ’s representation in statewide preservice leadership. Kuhnell and Althoff also co-led the Divisional meetings for Pre-Service and Higher Ed.
The conference also provided valuable opportunities to network with fellow art teachers, MSJ alumni, and student teacher mentors from across the Southwest region. These connections allowed participants to reconnect with colleagues, exchange classroom ideas, and strengthen the professional relationships that support the Mount’s preservice and practicing art educators.
Through presenting, receiving scholarships, and serving in elected roles, Mount students gained valuable experience contributing to their profession. Their participation alongside faculty mentors and novice educators demonstrated the Mount’s commitment to preparing art teachers who share their expertise, support one another, and advocate for meaningful arts learning.
