Gretchen McKay

Gretchen McKay is a Professor of History & Art History at McDaniel College, where she has been teaching since 2001. Her work emphasizes visual analysis, innovative pedagogy, and student engagement through methods like the 'Reacting to the Past' role-playing games. She is actively involved in curriculum development, particularly for a planned Public History Minor, and serves as faculty mentor to the Green Terror Football Team.

• Ph.D. in History of Art, University of Virginia (1997)
• M.A. in History of Art, University of Virginia (1992)
• B.A. in Art, Colby College (1989)

Her research interests include Medieval Art History, 19th-century French painting, Byzantine influences in modern art, visual literacy, and active learning strategies. She is particularly invested in the student-athlete experience at the NCAA Division III level and in making art history accessible to non-majors.

Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in educational innovation and interdisciplinary art historical inquiry, blending pedagogy with deep cultural analysis. She has published on flipped classrooms, undergraduate research in the humanities, and the integration of role-playing in teaching Roman and 19th-century art.

Scientific Awards:

• Charles A. Boehlke, Jr. Engaged Faculty Fellow (2019-2021)
• Faculty Book Award for Modernism vs. Traditionalism: Art in Paris, 1888-89 (2018)
• Ira G. Zepp Distinguished Teaching Award (2015)

Gretchen McKay is a dedicated mentor and educator, advising on pedagogical innovation and student engagement. She has received fellowships and awards supporting engaged teaching and undergraduate research. While no formal lab or research team is mentioned, her work with the Reacting to the Past consortium and her leadership in curriculum design indicate active collaboration and academic leadership.