Dr. Elissa Graff received her BFA from Miami University and an MFA from the University of Kansas.  While working at Appalachian State University as a curator, she also served as an Adjunct Professor for nearly a decade.    
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After moving to southeast Tennessee as a full-time Professor and Art Program Director, she became involved in developing interdisciplinary course work and facilitating undergraduate research projects for humanities students.  She co-led three study abroad courses focused on art, culture, and environmental sustainability with a biology colleague twice to Belize and once to South Africa.  In addition, she received two Andrew Mellon Undergraduate research grants to facilitate student research in Art, History and English.  
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Dr. Graff was recognized in 2013 with the Houston Award for Excellence in Teaching and she was later appointed Honors Program Director.  Also, in 2013, she completed her doctorate in education. Her dissertation focused on engaging today’s college student using experiential practices.  
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From January 2015 through August 2019, she served as Chairperson for Miami Dade College’s North Campus’ Arts & Philosophy Department. In August 2019, Dr. Graff was promoted to become the college's inaugural Dean of General Education.  She joined KyCAD as Dean of Faculty and Chair of General Education in January 2022.

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