The Knowlton Center Celebrates Professor Keith Allyn Spencer, February’s Faculty Champion!
The Knowlton Center is proud to recognize Professor Keith Allyn Spencer, Chair of the Visual Arts Department, as February’s Faculty Champion for his unwavering commitment to helping Denison students explore and build meaningful career pathways in the visual arts.
From the moment he stepped into his role as department chair, Professor Spencer prioritized strengthening the connection between the Visual Arts Department and the Knowlton Center. He worked to ensure that Visual Art majors and minors were well-supported, facilitating early meetings between students and career coaches at the start of the academic year. His leadership has also been instrumental in integrating the Praxis in the Arts—now a major requirement—into the broader career-readiness framework, helping students connect with alumni and secure internship opportunities that align with their artistic goals.

“One of the most impactful contributions of the Knowlton Center is its ability to provide potentially life-changing experiences by offsetting the costs of unpaid or low-paid internships, which often disadvantage students from economically challenged backgrounds.”
— Professor Keith Allyn Spencer
Professor Spencer has been an incredible partner to the Knowlton Center, working collaboratively to ensure that art majors are equipped with the skills, experiences, and confidence needed to navigate diverse and sustainable careers. With his thoughtful approach and deep dedication to student success, Professor Spencer has been a driving force in redefining what’s possible for students pursuing creative fields.
Professor Spencer emphasizes the importance of real-world experiences in helping students apply their artistic knowledge and challenge societal misconceptions about limited career opportunities in the visual arts. “By engaging in hands-on experiences, students are able to amplify what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in ways that deepen their understanding and expand their creative practice,” he explains.
Through the Knowlton Center’s ongoing collaboration with the Visual Arts Department, the two have continually refined their efforts to support art majors. One of the most transformative resources provided by the Knowlton Center is funding to offset the costs of unpaid or low-paid internships. This ensures that all students, regardless of financial background, can access valuable professional experiences that prepare them for their futures.
Professor Spencer’s leadership and advocacy for students reflect the core values of a liberal arts education—connecting academic learning with practical, real-world applications. His dedication has not only empowered students to think critically about their artistic journeys but also inspired them to pursue fulfilling and sustainable careers in the arts.
Thank you, Professor Keith Allyn Spencer, for your commitment to Denison students and for your invaluable partnership with the Knowlton Center. Your work is making a lasting impact on the lives and futures of our students, and we’re honored to recognize you as a Faculty Champion!