Faculty Feature is a series in the Blue Tribune that recognizes the excellent professors and staff of Covenant College through a series of questions.

This week we're highlighting Prof. Kayb Joseph, Professor of Art.

What brought you to Covenant? How long have you been teaching?

Seventeen years. I came here after teaching art in China for two years. A retired Covenant professor taught with me in China and he recommended the school.

What do you love about teaching at Covenant?

I think Covenant has amazing students! They are inquisitive, interested in learning, and want to learn what I have to teach. I love seeing the projects they create!!

What is your history with the PCA or Reformed Tradition?

I grew up in a non-Christian home, but became a Christian in High School. My first introduction to Reformed Theology was in college, through a professor that taught a bible study at a local church. I wasn't ever a member of the PCA until working at Covenant.

What's your favorite Covenant tradition?

Bagpipes.

What is a current research project or area of interest you're excited about?

Exploring the potential of fibers for making sculptures. I have a show that opens in November if you are interested in seeing any of those explorations!

What's one of your favorite cultural or family traditions?

My family (immediate and extended) has summered at the same camp at a lake in Maine since the 1960's. I have only missed twice in my entire life!

Anything else prospective students should know about you?

I am passionate about discipleship and mentorship as I am about teaching. I love learning new things and love coming alongside others in that process. Let's get curious together!

Tell us a little about your family:

I am the oldest of five. My family is very international and living abroad is a kind of right of passage in our family. We grew up on the west coast by my mother, and two of my siblings now live in Chattanooga. My family is also very creative. My father's side is all artists, my mother's side all collect art.

How do you or your department encourage each student to pursue academic excellence?

I assess the level my student is at, then encourage them to reach higher. For some that is basic skill acquirement, for others it's improving their design skills or conceptual thinking, for others it's taking the step to exhibit work beyond Covenant or take an internship. Whatever is needed for them to improve, that is where I push them.