Local Student Artist Receives LCC Latzer Art Award

Parsons, Kansas -The Labette Community College (LCC) Foundation is delighted to announce Amy Elizabeth Reynolds, a nontraditional student from Oswego, Kansas, as the John and Bonnie Latzer Fall 2023 Art Award recipient. Reynold’s exceptional ceramic piece, "Midnight Meadow Blossom," was chosen by the LCC Hendershot Gallery Committee, recognizing her outstanding talent and dedication to the craft.

“Amy's passion for art is evident in her latest creation, ‘Midnight Meadow Blossom,’ stated Heidi Schaaf, Assistant Professor of Art at LCC. “Tasked with crafting a unique 16-inch coil pot in my Ceramics I class, Amy drew inspiration from her love of gardening and beekeeping. The resulting flower pot fulfills the assignment criteria and serves a functional and visually striking purpose. The incorporation of the honeycomb shape symbolizes the intricate relationship between bees and flower blooms.”

Reynolds, a dedicated wife and mother of six, decided to return to college as a nontraditional student. Her previous role as the Junior High and High School Cheer Coach meant she was often away from her family. Recognizing the need for a career adjustment, Reynolds now pursues her teaching degree at LCC, emphasizing her commitment to family and education.

Having attended LCC almost 20 years ago, Reynolds’ accumulated credits have contributed to her current degree process. In Spring 2024, she is set to graduate with an Associate in Secondary Education, emphasizing Art. She is already on the path to obtaining her BA and MA, aiming to teach at her hometown school district and later as a college instructor.

Expressing gratitude, Reynolds shares, "Initially, going back to college at the age of 47 seemed overwhelming. However, it has been completely the opposite. The staff from admissions to financial aid, my advisor, my instructors, and even the Student Success Center have made college an easy transition. They are helping me plan for my future educational needs."

The Latzer Art Award is a significant honor for Reynolds, acknowledging her commitment to her craft and the positive impact of her ceramic pieces. As she continues her educational journey, she looks forward to contributing to her community through art education, combining her passion for teaching with her love for art and family. "It’s an honor to be chosen for the Latzer Art Award. I appreciate the amazing recognition for one of my favorite ceramic pieces I have created so far,” Reynolds added.

John C. and Bonnie B. Latzer established the Latzer Art Award as an endowment at the Parsons Community Foundation (PCF) to benefit fine arts at Labette Community College. The Latzer Art Award is a prestigious recognition presented to outstanding artists.

The Gallery Committee presented certificates of recognition to the "Best in Category" for the following:

Best in Illustration- Bree Maxwell

Best in Packaging Design – Aaron Clevenger

Best in Advertising – Claire Bradshaw

Best in Photography – Marriah Wade

Best in 2D Design – Amy Reynolds

Best in Drawing – Corey Chilcoat

The “Best in Category” art can be seen at www.labette.edu/art/latzer.html. For more information about the Latzer Art Award or Gallery exhibits, you can email Heidi Schaaf at heidis@labette.edu.