D. Jack Davis, longtime professor of art and founding dean of the College of Visual Arts and Design, received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Center for the Advancement and Study of Early Texas

Art. Given for his contributions to the field, the award was presented at the ninth annual Symposium on Early Texas Art in April in Dallas.

Davis began his career at UNT as a professor of art in 1971 and served as chair of the Department of Art, associate vice president for academic affairs, vice provost and founding dean. He now serves as professor of art and director of the university’s North Texas Institute for Educators on the Visual Arts, which prepares arts leaders.

Davis is a life member and Distinguished Fellow of the National Art Education Association. In 2005, the association named him the National Art Educator of the Year.