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DONALD LAGERBERG IS THE MOST OUTSTANDING ART INSTRUCTOR AND MENTOR I'VE ENCOUNTERED IN my academic career. It was evident from my first impression in fall 1995 in his Life Studies Drawing and Painting class that his first love is teaching. He is extremely patient, a great listener and he made every one of us feel special.
I have many pleasant memories of his classes, but one of the most amazing encounters I had while applying for graduate school. After reviewing my portfolio of abstract art, which was totally counter to the teachings of the five different art classes I'd had with him, Lagerberg gave me “Two Centuries of Black American Art” by David C. Driskell. Little did I know that a few years later, I would not only attend the same historic black university (Howard University) as the author, but would have an opportunity to meet Mr. Driskell. I also met a plethora of African American artists I never knew existed. In fact, I just earned my M.F.A. degree from Howard University.
I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to be taught by such a wonderful human being.
Shirley Harris '98 | B.F.A. fine art / illustration Silver Spring, Maryland