Alumna Spotlight: Olivia Sims, who graduated from JSU in Spring 2020 with an art degree, will be presenting a paper at the upcoming Southeastern College Art Conference (SECAC).

Hometown: Dora, AL

Major/minor: I majored in Art and minored in Art History

Recent Accomplishments

I graduated Summa Cum Laude this past spring from JSU. I also curated the History of Etowah County exhibit at the Gadsden Museum of Art and was featured in People of Alabama for it. My research paper entitled ​“A Socio-Feminist Approach to Emily Mary Osborn’s Nameless and Friendless” was accepted into SECAC 2020, to be held November 30-December 11. The conference will be virtual due to Covid. 

Why did you attend JSU?  I had dreamed of becoming a Marching Southerner since high school, but what really brought me here was the friendly campus! 

Why did you choose your major?  I originally came to JSU to pursue a major in Illustration, but after my first few art history classes with Dr. Henricks and Dr. Springer, I fell in love with art history and art museums, and I decided to minor in art history. 

What is your favorite thing to eat on/off campus? My favorite thing to eat on campus was WOW wings! My favorite thing to eat off campus is Cooter Brown’s BBQ sandwich! 

Hobbies? I love drawing, painting, making resin art, researching, and rollerblading! 

Favorite artist? It’s really hard to choose, I have so many! But if I had to choose one, I would say Edgar Degas. 

What clubs/organizations were you involved in? I was involved in the Marching Southerners 2016-2018. 

What is the coolest thing about the Art & Design Department? Definitely the faculty! They are some of the best teachers/people and will help you with anything. Being accepted into SECAC would not have been possible for me if it wasn’t for Dr. Springer’s and Dr. Ridlen’s guidance! The Ceramics studio is also pretty cool! 

What are your post-grad plans?  I am planning to pursue my masters in Art History with a certification in Museum Studies at UAB in Fall 2021. As for now, I am studying for the GRE, working on graduate applications, and preparing for my presentation for SECAC 2020. 

Advice to students new-to-JSU?  Don’t be afraid to try new things! Especially if you’re unsure what you want to major in; you never know what might become your new passion!