Lydia Thompson

Lydia Thompson is a distinguished professor in the Department of Art & Art History at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. With a rich and varied career in academia and the arts, she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her role. Prior to her current position, she served as the Director of the School of Art at Texas Tech University, where she was instrumental in enhancing the school's curriculum and fostering a vibrant artistic community. Her leadership skills were further honed during her tenure as the Department Head at Mississippi State University, where she oversaw significant departmental growth and development. Thompson's commitment to education and diversity is evident from her previous roles as Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University and Assistant Dean of Multi-Cultural Affairs at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. In these positions, she championed initiatives that promoted inclusivity and broadened access to educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. Her dedication to supporting underrepresented groups was also a focus during her time as Director of the Educational Opportunity Program at the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. An accomplished artist, Lydia Thompson's work has been showcased in numerous museums and galleries worldwide, earning her recognition and acclaim in the art community. Her artistic endeavors have been supported by prestigious grants from Fulbright Hayes and VCUarts, which enabled her to conduct research in Nigeria and Denmark. These international experiences have enriched her artistic practice and informed her teaching philosophy. In addition to her academic and artistic achievements, Thompson completed a residency at the Medalta Ceramic Center in Canada, further expanding her expertise in ceramics. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from The Ohio State University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the New York College of Ceramics at Alfred University, both of which laid the foundation for her successful career in the arts. Lydia Thompson's contributions to the field of art and education are significant, and her passion for fostering creativity and innovation continues to inspire her students and colleagues alike. Her diverse experiences and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to the UNC Charlotte community.