Transformative Encounters

CFA Faculty

Transformative Encounters

A Note from Dean Harvey Young: Winter 2025

December 21, 2024
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It was a sea of red. So many jerseys. I was in London. Outside, it was pouring and dark. Mark Arnold came to the rescue. Let’s rewind.

I first met Mark six years ago. Whenever I visit a city, I try to connect with Fine Arts alumni. I’ll send an e-mail. Introduce myself. Invite folks to join me for coffee.

Mark answered my initial e-mail. We had coffee. He’s soulful and incredibly inspiring. I’ve had several coffee chats with him since. Recently, I suggested that his story could be helpful to others—and shared that I’ve met lots of people who are struggling in the way that he once was, Mark reluctantly agreed. I am thankful to him for his generosity and trust in me and you.

The depth of talent, the creativity and passion for the arts, and the resilience of our community members always amazes me. One of my goals for the new year is to increase opportunities for alumni and friends to meet one another. Yes, it’s good to read about events and people—but it’s even more satisfying to encounter them in person.

I am increasing our outreach: exhibitions, public conversations and more in cities near you. You can learn about these activities via CFA Snapshot, our monthly e-newsletter. If you’re not receiving it, please e-mail me at cfadean@bu.edu. 

Encounters with new people—and the making of new friends—can transform your life for the better. Reading this issue, I am reminded of the joy of spending time with fellow Terriers:  S. Proski encouraging me to stand on and touch an original artwork; the sizzle of bacon in Clare Meeker’s kitchen as we talked about music and travel; the flash of recognition followed by a smile when David Hoffman and I spotted each other in a cafe. And there’s the race through rainy London. I was in search for a specific store that sold a particular Liverpool jersey. Mark Arnold looked me in the eye and, said, “I know exactly where it is. I’ll go with you.”

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