CORTLAND, NY.- SUNY Cortland has appointed Charles Heasley of Cortland, N.Y., as chair of the Art and Art History Department in the School of Arts and Sciences.

Heasley, a professor of art and art history who has served the College for 27 years, began his three-year appointment on Aug. 1. He previously chaired the department from 1997-2000.

The Art and Art History Department develops skills of analysis and critical thinking through instruction in the making and history of visual art. Courses emphasize the importance of the art object in society as a means of both individual and cultural expression, which is reinforced by guest lecturers, studio critiques and museum and gallery visits. The department offers a B.A. in art, a B.A. in new media design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Studio. Concentrations are available in studio art with a specialization in painting, printmedia, fiber arts, ceramics and sculpture; and art history. Also offered is a minor in art with a concentration in either studio art or art history.

Heasley, who joined the College's Art and Art History Department as an assistant professor in 1981, was promoted to associate professor in 1988 and to professor in 1993.

Heasley earned his bachelor's degree from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, N.M., and two master's degrees, one in arts in printmaking and the other in fine arts in printmaking from West Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Mich.