08/17/2022
We are deeply saddened by the recent passing of Karen Chesna, Online Coordinator for the School of Jewelry & Metal Arts.
Karen’s kind spirit and presence will be greatly missed. Joining the University in 2016, Karen was a valued and longstanding faculty member. Karen graduated from Academy of Art University with Magna Cum Laude honors in 2010 and was one of the first Online MFA FASCU students. Her passionate engagement in the Academy’s program was an inspiration.
Those who worked closely with Karen have shared that they were, “always struck by her compassion, empathy, and dedication to her students and craft. She loved creating things and sharing the process with her colleagues and students, reminding us of what a joy it is to be an artist and how fortunate we are to work in a field that values creativity. Karen balanced the high standards required to be successful with good nature and positivity, beautifully melding the best traits of a supportive and kind Instructor. An incredible teacher and artist, coming from a place of both compassion and intelligence, she made an enormous difference in the online experience for both teachers and students.”
We offer our deepest condolences to her family and friends during this difficult time. ❤️
