Don Schol, 82, of Argyle, Professor Emeritus of visual arts and design and founder of the photography program, died Feb. 2. He worked at UNT for 41 years, joined the art faculty in 1969 and retiring as associate dean for administrative affairs in what was then the School of Visual Arts and Design.

He was hired to create the photography department and he was a sculpture faculty member. His primary work was in wood sculpture, which frequently involved Honduran mahogany, hand carving chisels and techniques from the Middle Ages. His work often touched on faith and was commissioned by churches throughout the DFW area and in Nigeria. Students and colleagues remember him for his mentorship.

Before coming to UNT, he volunteered to serve in the U.S. Army infantry. He also was a team leader for U.S. Army Combat Artist Team V for a short time in Vietnam. The sculptures and drawings he created for the U.S. Army are archived at the Smithsonian Institution. He published War Cuts, a book of woodcut prints and commentary about his experiences, and the original woodcut prints are on display at the National Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Angel Fire, New Mexico.

He received his bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the University of Dallas and his Master of Fine Arts in sculpture and drawing from the University of Texas at Austin.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela B. Burnley-Schol (’89 M.F.A.).