May 26, 2004

University names new
School of the Arts director

California State University, Sacramento professor Phillip Hitchcock has been named director of the University’s School of the Arts. He will continue his current position as director of the University Library Gallery during the two-year appointment.

Phillip Hitchcock

Hitchcock came to CSUS in 1976 from the faculty of the Art Institute of Chicago to serve as art department chair following a nationwide search. He remained as chair for the next nine years before returning to teaching at CSUS. Hitchcock has served as founding director of the University Library Gallery since its opening three years ago, and is responsible for establishing the library’s overall art collection as well as the acquisition of many of the University’s outdoor sculptures.

Since the early 1980s Hitchcock has also worked as a corporate art consultant on major development projects in Sacramento, including the Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel, Meridian Plaza and the Plaza Lofts on J Street.

Hitchcock earned his undergraduate degree from Whitworth College in Washington and his master’s in fine arts degree from Institute Allende at the University of Guanajuato, Mexico.

"Professor Hitchcock has done a superb job bringing high quality exhibits to the University's Library Gallery,” said Ric Brown, vice president for academic affairs at CSUS. “I anticipate that he will provide that same level of leadership to the School of the Arts.” Brown added that professor Roberto Pomo, who has served as interim director of the School of the Arts while also serving as chair of the department of theater and dance, has provided a solid foundation for continued development.

Hitchcock’s appointment is effective June 1.

Media assistance is available from CSUS public affairs at (916) 278-6156.

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