Ambassadors Council

A community of creative leaders advancing the mission and future of the College of Visual Arts and Design.

The CVAD Ambassadors Council is a distinguished group of leaders, advocates, and champions who help raise the College of Visual Arts and Design's visibility, reputation and impact.

Members engage with the university’s vision, connect with students and faculty, and collaborate with industry and community partners to position CVAD as a driving force for creativity and innovation in higher education.

The council includes Active Members, who take part in initiatives, events, and philanthropic efforts, and Emeritus Members, who are recognized for their lasting contributions and remain connected to the life of the college.

Together, they form a vibrant network dedicated to shaping CVAD’s future and amplifying the University of North Texas's voices and values.

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The following list comprises the members of the CVAD Ambassadors Council. For more information, contact Eric Ligon, senior associate dean for administrative affairs, or Susana Parra, executive assistant to Dean Karen Hutzel.

CVAD Ambassadors Council Members
Monica Samson, co-chair
Phil Samson, co-chair, CVAD alum: 2022, M.F.A., Studio Art
Cohn Drennan
Michael W. Faircloth, CVAD alum: 1983, Fashion Design
Susan J. Ellis Gabbard, Distinguished alumna, 1970, B.A., 1994, M.A.
Gordon Kendall
Brandon Murphy, CVAD alum: 1993, B.F.A., Communication Design
Terence Reynolds
Peggy Sagers
David Wilgus, CVAD alum: 1980, B.F.A., Communication Design: Graphic Design
Jim T. Wilson, CVAD alum: 2018, M.F.A., Studio Art: Drawing & Painting

Emeritus Members
Marilyn Archer, alum: 1980, B.F.A., Interior Design
Cathy Drennan
Anita Moran
Nancy Nasher
Debbie Johnson Stafford, alum: 1977, B.F.A., Studio Art: Metalsmithing and Jewelry; 1980, M.S., Industrial Arts

In Memoriam
D. Jack Davis
Georgia "Billie" Gough
Ray Nasher

CVAD Ambassadors Council News

Naming of the Michael W. Faircloth Fashion Design Program 

Before the official unveiling of the Michael W. Faircloth Fashion Design Program at the College of Visual Arts and Design, many clients and friends gathered to share their heartfelt thoughts and reflections. In this video, they express their admiration for Michael Faircloth’s legacy and their support for the program that now bears his name. The unveiling ceremony took place on March 29, 2025, in the UNT Art Building.

Ambassadors Council, Alumnus Highlight: Terence Reynolds

Terence Reynolds, ’81, B.F.A., Art, will be inducted into the American Advertising Federation’s 10th District Southwest Advertising Hall of Fame!
A true creative powerhouse, Reynolds has shaped some of the world’s most recognizable brands, from Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Hyundai, and Zales to Ulta Beauty, Summer’s Eve, The Patrón Spirits Company, and Metro PCS. His award-winning work continues to leave a lasting impact on national and international stages, demonstrating that creativity and business acumen can be mutually beneficial. Read more about it on CVAD News & Views.
 

CVAD Advancement Board Undergraduate Scholarship

The CVAD Advancement Board Undergraduate Scholarship is funded solely by CVAD Ambassadors Council members and is dedicated to supporting students in pursuit of higher education. Kicked off by CVAD Ambassadors Council member Marilyn Archer with the inaugural gift, this is a merit-based scholarship.

Jaclyn Williamson Design Scholarship

Through the Jaclyn Williamson Design Scholarship, created by her parents, Sarah and Kenneth Williamson, in memory of their daughter Jaclyn's legacy, her spirit lives on — allowing her to continue taking new designers under her wing as they grow and strengthen their skills.