Ann Bryan
Ann Ballard Bryan, a clinical instructor of Interior Design in the Family and Consumer Science Department, was recently awarded the Excellence in Preservation Education award by the Historic Preservation Alliance of Arkansas.
She honored for her role in developing and implementing curriculum in historic preservation in UCA’s Interior Design program.
Bryan wrote the current curriculum for Introduction to Historic Preservation for the Interior Design and Family and Consumer Science students. The Historic Preservation course is based on preservation in the United States. Bryan also developed the summer Interior Design Study Abroad program to study the aspects of history and preservation from a global perspective.
“I was very surprised and honored to be nominated. Historic Preservation is truly my passion,” Bryan said. “It combines general history, Arkansas history, architecture history, decorative arts history and most importantly, the personal histories of individuals.”
According to Bryan, knowing one’s history is important.
“Helping students understand and appreciate their history is the best job I could ever wish for,” Bryan said.
The students involved with the Historic Preservation course are involved in research of National Register eligible properties, go on several field trips each semester, conduct oral histories and volunteer with preservation organizations such as the Quapaw Quarter.
The study abroad students study history through museums, churches and galleries, in cities in Italy. – Lisa Burnett