Betsy Towns

Betsy Towns is a Professor of Art History & Creative Practice and Director of the Core 1 Curriculum and Experiences at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA). She also leads the Arts Entrepreneurship Minor and sustains an independent studio practice at the intersection of art and natural history.

• Education: Ph.D., M.A., and B.A. from UNC Chapel Hill in Art History and English/Studio Art

Her research focuses on community-engaged public art, sustainable design practices, and interdisciplinary education. She has directed large-scale, grant-funded projects like the Present Absence Project, which highlights the legacy of the Kate Bitting Reynolds Memorial Hospital, and a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant exploring design solutions for sustainable human waste management systems.

Notable scientific awards and honors include:

• Morehead Scholar
• UNCSA Excellence in Teaching Award
• UNC Chapel Hill Undergraduate Teaching Award
• Honors in Creative Writing
• Luce Fellowship
• Joseph Pogue Fellowship

Betsy Towns actively involves students in transformative learning experiences through public art initiatives and co-created studios, while maintaining a robust practice in art and design.