The Modern Announces 2024 Honorary Degree Recipient

The Modern College of Design will award Betsy McFaddin an honorary degree at the 2024 Commencement Ceremony, which will be held on June 9th at the Masonic Center in Dayton, Ohio.

Betsy graduated from Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her design career began in Dayton, Ohio, at Real Art, where she contributed to extraordinary projects and developed life-long friendships for over 32 years.

Betsy joined The Modern College of Design’s staff in early 2019, working closely with President Jessica Barry to execute many operational and financial initiatives. Due to her passion for design and positively impacting small businesses, she quickly became a champion for the students, faculty, and staff. She played a critical role in 2020 by helping the college overcome the challenges of the global pandemic.

Through her tenure at The Modern, she advanced to Director of Administrative Services overseeing campus operations. She was named the 2023 Staff Member of the Year and celebrated her retirement from the college in early 2024.

“Betsy’s extensive design knowledge and continual sense of optimism impacted the lives of our students, faculty, and staff,” states The Modern College of Design President Jessica Barry. “Through Betsy’s tireless dedication to The Modern’s success, we are a better institution, and we’re thrilled that she will accept an honorary degree on June 9th.”

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