David Crane, professor of fine art in the College of Architecture and Urban Studies at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the title of professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

The emeritus title may be conferred on retired professors, associate professors, and administrative officers who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board receive an emeritus certificate from the university.

A member of the university community since 1980, Crane has made significant contributions to creativity and innovation through his work in ceramics. His artworks have appeared in more than 275 national and international exhibitions and he has conducted 36 invited lectures and demonstrations. Reproductions of Crane’s ceramic works have been published in 10 books, along with numerous catalogs and articles. His work appears in private, university, and museum collections.

Crane is the recipient of a Virginia Museum Artist Fellowship and a Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art - Seven National Artist Fellowship Award. He also received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Northern Arizona University.

At Virginia Tech, Crane served as the program chair of studio art in the School of Visual Arts, head of the Department of Art and Art History, and director of the Armory Art Gallery.

He taught a variety of undergraduate courses ranging across the studio arts curriculum, advised many students with their capstone projects, and helped them to develop successful careers in academe or as professional artists.

Crane received his bachelor of fine arts degree from Northern Arizona University and a master of fine arts degree from Illinois State University at Normal.

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