McCook Community College art instructor Rick Johnson was named the 2023 Mid-Plains Community College faculty member of the year. The announcement came at the Nebraska Community College Association’s annual meeting in North Platte.
“I’m honored and humbled with this award,” said Johnson. “What an amazing opportunity to be a part of an encouraging and supportive institution, that allows me to do something that I’m so passionate about. It is a joy to go to work each day.”
Johnson, who brings more than 20 years of teaching experience to the classroom, was honored for his flexible teaching style accompanied by his creativity and enthusiasm which inspires students to want to exceed.
“He continuously provides empathy, compassion and one-on-one opportunities for students to learn and grow as an artist,” his nomination letter reads. “Rick is never complacent, striving to find new ways to enhance his teaching abilities and inspire students whether it be during a lesson, lecture, gallery critique or student field trips.”
Johnson has also been instrumental in the coordination of the annual MCC high school art exhibition and paint-in on campus. The event lures in high school students from across the region to showcase their talents and allows them to interact with instructors within the Associate of Fine Arts program.
Johnson was a driving force in helping the college establish an Associate of Fine Arts degree.
Johnson initiated and led a “Young Artist” art guild for Southwest Nebraska practicing artists and also participated in art showcases including the Prairie Arts Center gallery showcase and reception, the Northwest Kansas Cultural Arts Center showcase and reception and many more prominent showcases across Nebraska and Kansas.
He continues working with the Museum of Nebraska Art, the American Watercolor Society and other traveling exhibits to expose students to a variety of artwork from local and national artists.
Among his innovations is his continued use of a more effective technical approach within the lab environment. That includes a document camera for demonstrations, video demonstrations and interactive or virtual gallery tours. All increase student engagement and provide an interactive approach to traditional drawing and painting classes.
According to his colleagues, Johnson believes that students need to have strong self-advocacy, time management, money management and independent living skills to be successful in postsecondary settings – beyond academic requirements.
“His approach and discipline provide each student with a remarkable opportunity to advance and flourish in our institution and be extremely grounded and prepared for any higher educational endeavor,” his nomination letter reads. “He believes that being a good leader means setting a good example for others.”
Johnson has instituted a web-based marketing network and social media exposure platform for personal professional artwork, as well as a social media platform for the Associate of Fine Arts students. All was done in an effort to enhance the marketing efforts of the AFA degree and promote the work of his students.
In 2020, Johnson received the Dr. Gene Budig Outstanding MCC Faculty Award. He was also recognized as the college’s National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Award recipient in 2010.
“Being surrounded by individuals in higher education that respect Fine Arts is amazing,” said Johnson. “I’m truly blessed as an educator and fine artist.”
Johnson has served on many work groups to enhance the institution’s academic offerings while offering guidance on hiring committees to grow the mission of the institution.
Professionally he earned “Best of Show” and purchase awards for his work in galleries across the country.