The eternal beauty of Ivy Hall

Photograph courtesy of Dane Sponberg

Glenn Wallace, SCAD senior vice president for college resources and the visionary behind the SCAD Design Group, spoke on Sunday, August 15 to a packed house about Ivy Hall and its award-winning restoration by the university. The house is located on Ponce de Leon Ave., in midtown Atlanta. Vice President Wallace described the labor of love that is now the Writing Center for SCAD’s emerging young writers. “It’s about the students,” Wallace told the audience, which took up the top portion of the house as well as the downstairs foyer. “We want to this facility to be used for the next generations and beyond,” he elaborated.

The Peters family first built Ivy Hall in the 1880s and after their departure, the building was turned into a restaurant called The Mansion in the 1970s. The building has not only had many different owners, but has also experienced numerous fires in its long existence. The ivy-laced structure has been taken apart and put back together in some areas, but stands as monumentally beautiful as its original self.

Although the neighborhood surrounding Ivy Hall has become more urban and modern over the years, the house renovations have restored the building to nearly its original 1883 architecture. Some of the house’s original features include its fireplaces and glassed-in porch. The building’s modern conveniences are camouflaged in its historical façade and detailed characteristics. Vice President Wallace described the house as “the iPhone of its day, with cutting edge technology and leading ideas for the future …” with as much zest and zeal as the building had in its heyday. Students come to study, learn and write inside a beautiful work of art as well as a technologically up-to-date facility.

“This is about the students and how we can use great things to restore the building … but if it doesn’t have the life continuance [for students and beyond], then it doesn’t matter. It’s about the next life afterwards and what we will do [to continue to grow],” Wallace stated. Echoing his message, Albert Cuspin-Annkah, a third year interior design student, stated that the building’s architecture “inspires” him and that he is “amazed at how they pulled everything together.” The awe of the students and other guests at the lecture demonstrates how far Ivy Hall has come and how the facility can continue to be a beneficial learning environment for generations to come.

Greeked out

Much of what some people know about Greek life comes only from the movies. A keg here, a party there or a moment of wondering if “Stomp the Yard” really was an accurate portrayal of the pledging process at some universities. Students at SCAD who do know about Greek life may be graduate or transfer students and may have experienced a liberal arts education elsewhere. Sitting down with Dean Art Malloy, a fraternity member himself, the question arose as to whether the students of SCAD want and/or need the presence of Greek life at their school.

“Yes, it is possible,” Malloy started slowly, “but, is it probable? Then, my answer is ‘no’ at this time.” For some, this answer may come as a surprise, but the answer is rooted in SCAD’s ability to be one of the top art schools to place students in a formidable career path. “We are an intensive school,” he stated. “I would compare this institution to a law school or [medical] school … this is a professional school,” he maintained. Malloy’s attitude toward the idea of Greek life does not have any negative connotations, but stems from being aware of the pros and cons from his own undergraduate experience. “I have no illusions about what joining a fraternity and sorority are about. I know what it is and what it isn’t — the pros and cons,” he stated. “I know they aren’t right for every institution,” he added.

Students also expressed their views on possible Greek life at SCAD. Jamil Green, a fourth year interactive and system development student, commented on his ideas of sororities and fraternities. “I probably would have wanted to see [about joining a fraternity] … I would have liked to see a little more social life.” Green went on to say that joining a fraternity or other organization at SCAD probably would not interfere with his ambition to graduate; he would be used to the stress, especially with his class workload.

Looking into the pros and cons of Greek life, some students may be afraid of the process of joining. The possibility of hazing turns many away from even considering joining an organization. Terra Evans, a second year visual communications and advertising student, once attended Auburn University. She refused to take part in any activity where hazing was allowed and where people her own age were “telling her what to do.” Yet, she also stated that while Greek life wasn’t for her, joining a sorority or fraternity can be fun because of the parties, social activities and community service events.

Malloy also related to Evans’ sentiments regarding Greek life, taking into consideration the positive aspects of Greek organizations as well as the negative. The positive nature of the fraternities and sororities is “consistent with SCAD’s mission” of scholastic achievement and networking. Yet, the need for them is not great because these tasks are being achieved by students anyway. Malloy asserted that SCAD’s reputation is directly connected to whom the school is committed: its students.

Omar Richardson, a member of Phi Beta Sigma — a historically black fraternity — and graduate of SCAD with a MA in commercials and MFA in printmaking, believes that the students at SCAD who are already Greek should come together and “demonstrate community service that frats and sororities are supposed to be about.” Richardson pledged his fraternity as an undergraduate student at Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia.

While some students may like the idea of Greek life at SCAD, administrators “are more focused on getting students jobs and realize that other social activities can come later,” Malloy elaborated. Yet, Malloy does admit that “SCAD is thirty-one years old and as we grow and continue to grow … we can anticipate more.”

Top priority security

Top priority security at SCAD Atlanta

Illustration by Arthur Ball

Regarding the various security issues that have been seen in the media and on the surrounding college campuses in Atlanta, SCAD’s Security Manger Robert Koker sat down to chat about how to be safe and secure at SCAD Atlanta. Securing the perimeters of the various buildings may seem tricky in the hustle and bustle of the city, but, for Koker, security is top priority regardless of the distance.

Koker states, “The primary purpose [for the security guards] is to make sure no one gets on the property that doesn’t belong and to ensure safety, while also enforcing the rules of conduct set by the school.” While the presence of the Allied Barton security officers does not go unnoticed, some students may not be aware of the guards’ true job descriptions. SCAD student Taylor Hoard states that although she hasn’t really needed any help in regards to security, she feels that she would receive assistance, if needed. While students must attend an orientation safety session at the beginning of their first quarter at SCAD, Koker and Dean Art Malloy have been in talks to develop a method of giving the students more safety lessons.

Koker affirms, “Last fall, we did a safety week which also encompassed fire safety. Jeff Smith, the head of operations, and Helen Morgan, the head of OSHA [Occupational Safety and Health Administration] from Savannah, taught self defense classes.” He also observed that “communication” is key to keeping SCAD’s students in a positive environment. “My door is always open…If I can’t help, then, Dean Malloy will be the next candidate to [discuss] an issue.”

Koker outlined some of the ways to be safe this summer and anytime during the year.

1.  Be aware of your surroundings. (Do not walk with your head down or be too
interested in your cell phone.)

2.  Have your keys in your hand when you go to car. (Do not fumble around with
them.)

3.  Try keeping one hand free at all times. (Make more than one trip, if necessary.
Have a possible folding cart.)

4.  Walk in groups and encourage people to utilize the shuttle. (Ask for a ride on
the security trucks, if necessary.)

5.  If you see something suspicious, go to the security desk and report it.

6.  Have the security number programmed in your phone: 404.253.3333.

7.  Ask for an escort if it is late and you do not feel safe.

8.  Communicate with the officers.

9.  In case of an absolute emergency, call 911 and then find security.

10.  Slow down when on campus, so as not to make a bigger emergency than
originally caused.

With much of the ground coverage for the school done by camera monitoring and via the one security vehicle (which will get a sister car in the fall), as well as by the guards on each site of the school, students such as Angelyn Love, a first quarter photography student, says she “feel[s] safe” when security asks for identification. Backing this thought, Taylor Arnold, a graduate writing student, states, “I have no complaints about the security at SCAD. All of the guards are very consistent in checking our IDs when we enter the building, and they are always there to escort us out of the building if it is late at night. I feel very safe on campus.”

Race to financial freedom: Smart Option Student Loan

The current state of the economy and rising tuition costs have forced many students to live off of student loans while they pursue higher education.

Last month, Sallie Mae announced new enhancements to its Smart Option Student Loan program for the upcoming 2010-2011 school term. Cutting interest rates, the Smart Option Loan will range between 2.88 percent and 10.25 percent.

The Sallie Mae Smart Option Loan could save you money over time, requiring interest-only payments both during school and during the normal six-month grace period after you finish school. Making these payments early could be the difference between reaching financial independence in your late twenties or mid thirties. The chart below is an example of cost saving benefits to students over the life of their loan.

Unlike some credit programs, there is no early repayment penalty or prepayment penalty, meaning you are free to pay more than you owe each month. This expedited payment structure also means larger payments per month once you begin repayment on your loan.

In a press release, Executive Vice President of Sallie Mae Joe DePaulo said: “Our experience shows that our student customers are successfully managing their monthly payments. In fact, customers who selected Sallie Mae’s Smart Option Student Loan over the last year and continue to make on-time payments are on track to save an estimated $1.1 billion in total over the life of their loans. As the economy improves, we are pleased to pass additional savings on to students and families and encourage them to borrow smart.”

Other benefits, like the UPromise Rewards program and a 0.25 percent interest rate reduction with a debit payment plan, come standard on all Sallie Mae loans.

For more information on the Sallie Mae Smart Option Student Loan, click here.

From conception to fruition: Fashion Seen 2010

On May 20, senior fashion students presented their work in an atelier setting for Fashion Seen 2010, in the 4C gallery space at SCAD Atlanta. In this setting, suggested by Vogue’s former Editor-at-Large and current Contributing Editor Andre Leon Talley, guests were able to converse with each student designer about their respective design processes. From inspiration and fabric selection to the design and construction of their final garments, the students shared details about what enabled them to create a cohesive collection.

Paula Smith, a SCAD Atlanta student from Charleston, South Carolina, used trees as inspiration for her collection. The texture of bark and rings from the inside of trees were mimicked in the top stitching of her designs. As a participant of the SCAD Style Lab mentorship program, Smith worked with designer Bryan Bradley to complete her collection. She thought that Bradley was “really amazing” and stated that he even provided her with some fabrics; “he was like Santa Claus!” Smith said that “[having] input from someone in the field really helps” in the design process. She also believes that the mentorship program provides better opportunities for employment in the industry.

Ji Young Jung, a fourth-year fashion student from Seoul, South Korea, cited origami and a “nomadic way of life” as the inspirations for her collection. Her fashions incorporated “lots of folds and straight lines, but [are] also loose for movement.” Jung collaborated with mentor Catherine Malandrino to complete her collection.

Jeffrey Hart, a fourth-year fashion student from Charleston, West Virginia, found inspiration for his fashion collection in antique embroidery techniques, architecture, sculpture and frieze work. He also lauded the SCAD Style Lab mentorship program, stating, “[it is] a great opportunity to hone in ideas and work with someone else…who really knows what they’re talking about.” The garment that Hart is most proud of is his navy blue collared gown with a capelet bolero – “it’s over the top and sparkly!”

From 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., SCAD Atlanta students were able to preview the event and support their fellow students. SCAD Atlanta students Janesa Johnson and Melissa Welch came “to see them all.” Johnson, a third-year fashion student, stated, “I want to do this next year. I want to get a feel for what it’s like.” Welch, a second-year fashion student, said of the event, “It’s a nice experience to see how the ‘real world’ industry works.” Ty Dare, a first-year fashion student and event volunteer, said of the show, “I think it’s amazing – so professional, so well done. Also, this was a judged competition, so they’re all here for a reason.” After the students’ preview, Fashion Seen opened to the public at 7:30 p.m.

SCAD faculty and staff also attended the event. SCAD President Paula S. Wallace stated, “[Fashion Seen] was Andre Leon Talley’s idea. I talked to him and said that Atlanta needed its own fashion event.” Talley envisaged an atelier scene to showcase the student designers’ work. Observing the caliber of the event and the commitment of the school to its students, Dean Art Malloy said, “this is what students have come to expect from SCAD.” He affirmed, “A relationship with Andre Leon Talley is one that other fashion departments around the country just don’t have.” SCAD continues to have exceptional relationships with artists and designers in the field, including those in the SCAD Style Lab mentorship program, which is completing its first academic year being offered at SCAD Atlanta. The designers involved in the mentorship program this year are Zac Posen, Catherine Malandrino, Bryan Bradley and Angel Sanchez. These acclaimed fashion designers offered direction and inspiration through one-on-one critiques and guidance from concept through production.

President Wallace also discussed the mentorship program. She observed that the program is “a way for students to have a direct connection with designers.” These connections also “build relationships when students are out interviewing [for jobs].” Dean of the School of Fashion, Michael Fink, remarked that the mentorship program is “there for students who want to work with a designer and get a real life experience.” He specifically mentioned Bryan Bradley and Angel Sanchez, describing their mentorships as “invaluable.”

Dean Malloy acknowledged the program as a great way for students “to get the feedback they need to fine tune their skills and designs – to make connections that are life-changing.” Associate Vice President for Academic Services at SCAD Atlanta, Teresa Griffis, PhD., affirmed that the importance of this event is reflected in its relation to SCAD’s mission statement; Fashion Seen and the SCAD Style Lab mentorship program pair students with careers. She observed, “Events like this show reality, as well as showcase [students’] talents and efforts.”

Editor’s note: This article has been altered from its original version in order to remove incorrect information that was provided to The Connector. We regret any confusion the error may have caused.

Photo of the week

Last week SCAD Atlanta Radio debuted their first music video in the Hub by the “Guys Night Out” (GNO) radio hosts which includes Eric Beatty, Robby White, Dinesh Dave, and Dylan Fagan. You can watch their video here and also even download the song for your enjoyment!

Read more

Atlanta designers debut at SCAD Fashion Show in Savannah

By L.G. McCord

“The future of any industry is centered right here at SCAD,” said Michael Fink, dean of SCAD’s School of Fashion Design. Fink presented two SCAD students with the Golden Scissors award, then introduced the SCAD 2010 Fashion Show, May 15 at the Trustees Theater in Savannah, Georgia.  Moments later, the heart pounding sounds of DJ Sharpnel filled the theater and fashion took over the catwalk.

28 senior fashion students were featured in the show. Six of the featured designers were from SCAD Atlanta: Makensangla Imcha Payne, Rita Watson, Rebecca Formichella, Maria Ah, Rachel Wertz and Becky Wong. Each student’s name was displayed in lights on the stage, while four of their fashions paraded the catwalk.

Each designer’s signature style was apparent. One student’s design showed the proficient construction of boning and serging, inspired by the architectural form and shape of towers in Dubai. The crowd held their breath as they watched models strut down the catwalk in seducing stacked-platform stilettos. Another designer showcased looks of classic romance in clean blacks and creams adorned with fur. Others introduced new trends such as lamb leather ankle cuffs in fabrics such as silk and jersey. Yet another student designer showed hand-painted prints and rust dyed fabrics, creating tie-dyed effects. Fashions ranged from high-end abstract to ready-to-wear sportswear inspired by shapes and pirates.

Valerie Samuel, an attendee who lives in Savannah and comes to the show every year, said that she left the show with “more ideas for color coordinating.”

Professionals and students meet at Out to Launch

SCAD Atlanta held its third annual Out to Launch portfolio exhibition on May 6, showcasing student work to entice potential employers. This event is a kind of reverse career fair, where students display their work in a typical career fair format. Faculty, staff and potential employers were able to view student portfolios from fields such as advertising design, animation, graphic design, illustration, interactive design and game development, motion media design, photography and writing. Jonathan Justice, a senior interactive design and game development student, said, “[The opportunity to participate in Out to Launch] is not something you should pass up … I met a lot of people from some big industry companies … I even got an interview with one of them.”

During the second half of the event, held on the morning of May 7, students enjoyed a lecture by keynote speaker Chris Hall, president and executive officer of BBDO in Atlanta, titled, “Succeeding in the New Now.” Hall’s lecture addressed the financial meltdown and how the economy has changed the landscape of advertising. Despite the looming recession, Hall’s words encouraged students as he credited “the blurring of technology” for the creation of new jobs in the creative industry. Hall exclaimed, “[Now is the] best time to be in marketing.”

Hall’s speech was followed by an announcement of the best-in-show winners from the previous evening’s portfolio exhibition. The following students took home the top prizes:

Lauren Henderson — advertising
Jessica Wang —animation
Andrea Gill —graphic design
Solango Melaker —illustration
Jonathan Matos — motion media
John Chu — interactive design and game development
David Greer — photography
Gray Chapman —writing

A panel discussion and question-and-answer session with industry leaders from CNN Worldwide, JWT Atlanta, Moxie Interactive, Razorfish, Fitzgerald & Co. and Clockstop Entertainment followed the awards ceremony. The topics ranged from the infamous redesign of the Tropicana carton (“I thought it sucked,” said Scot M. Safon, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for CNN) to the importance of interactive media (“It is not going away,” said Ben Cammarano, director of central media for Microsoft). Hal Barber, associate creative director for Fitzgerald & Co., had this tip for writers looking to break in to the advertising business: “[I look for a] writer who thinks visually.” Safon offered his own advice to students looking for ways to market themselves: “There are tons of ways to get a product out there. You just have to work with the resources you’ve got.” He credited the power of YouTube and other social media as venues that students may use to show potential employers the results of their creativity.

Following the panel discussion, students were able to participate in a networking session with the featured guests.

A night of fashion: 2010 SCAD Static Show after party

“There is a certain level of work ethic and passion the students [of SCAD] are taught to have, a level of professionalism that is instilled into their students. [The senior collections] are impeccable. I am always impressed.”

Mychael Knight, fashion designer

The Connector rubs elbows with some of fashion’s rising stars. More photos and interviews from the event will be available later this week.

The Connector covers 2010 SCAD Fashion Show

“Be yourself know who you are and what you want to be and go for it. The future of any industry is centered right here at SCAD.”

Dean Michael Fink, School of Fashion Design

The Connector traveled to Savannah for the 2010 SCAD Fashion Show. More photos and interviews from the event will be available later this week.

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