Faculty Who Built the Arts Community

The history of the arts at Old Dominion University has been shaped by generations of faculty members who combined creative practice, scholarship, teaching, and mentorship. These artists and scholars did more than develop programs—they created opportunities for students, expanded the university's cultural presence, and helped define the character of the arts community.

Their influence can be seen throughout campus today: in academic programs, exhibitions, performances, collections, and the generations of students who continue their creative work beyond the university.

Dr. Adolphus Hailstork

Eminent Scholar & Professor Emeritus of Music

A distinguished composer and educator, Dr. Adolphus Hailstork has become one of the most celebrated figures in contemporary classical music. His compositions have been performed by major orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and his work was featured during the 2021 Presidential Inauguration.

Through his teaching and creative work at Old Dominion, Hailstork has contributed to the university's reputation as a place where composition, performance, and scholarship intersect.

Ken Daley (1941–2022)

Professor Emeritus of Printmaking | 51 Years at ODU

Ken Daley was a foundational figure in the history of visual arts at Old Dominion University. After joining the faculty in 1965, he established the university's printmaking program, founded its first formal gallery, and served as department chair for fifteen years.

A master of lithography, letterpress, and neon art, Daley dedicated more than five decades to teaching and mentoring artists. As the longest-serving professor in university history, his influence extends through generations of students and colleagues.

Alexander Brooks "A.B." Jackson (1925–1981)

First African American Full Professor at ODU | Joined 1967

A.B. Jackson brought national recognition to Old Dominion's art program through his paintings and drawings documenting the people and communities of Norfolk.

A graduate of the Yale School of Art, Jackson combined technical mastery with a deep engagement with everyday life. Works such as Porch People and As I See Ghent captured the character of Hampton Roads while demonstrating the importance of local experience within broader artistic conversations.

Konrad Winters

Professor Emeritus of Studio Art & Former Department Chair

A painter, printmaker, and academic leader, Konrad Winters played an important role in guiding the studio art program through periods of transition and growth.

As department chair, Winters helped advance curriculum development, strengthen studio programs, and advocate for the facilities needed to support contemporary artistic practice.

Dr. Linda McGreevy

Professor Emerita of Art History | 33 Years at ODU

A scholar, critic, and educator, Dr. Linda McGreevy shaped generations of students through her teaching and leadership in art history.

During her tenure, she served as department chair and mentored students who went on to careers in museums, education, and cultural institutions. Along with her husband, she co-donated the 42,000-title Naro Video Collection to Perry Library, creating a significant resource for research and teaching.

Robert P. Arnett

Distinguished Art History Faculty

Robert P. Arnett was a dedicated scholar and educator whose teaching helped establish a strong foundation for art historical study at Old Dominion.

Through decades of instruction and mentorship, he introduced students to the history of art while encouraging a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of the region.

Marilyn Marloff

Professor Emerita of Dance | 36 Years at ODU

Marilyn Marloff transformed dance education at Old Dominion University over more than three decades of teaching and leadership.

She developed twenty-two core courses, co-founded the ODU Dance Theatre, and pioneered innovative approaches to dance film and performance. Her work established dance as a vital part of the university's performing arts community.

A Continuing Legacy

The work of these faculty members demonstrates a central theme in the history of the arts at Old Dominion: communities are built through people. Buildings, collections, and programs provide important foundations, but it is faculty who teach, create, mentor, and inspire the next generation.

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