A Gallery of Gratitude

On March 9, 2024, Kutztown University students Brooklynne “Brook” Smith ’27 and Hailey Stumpo ’27 toured an art studio. It wasn’t long before they broke out the brushes themselves, creating paintings alongside the artist: their scholarship donor, Dr. Sandra “Sandy” L. Corpora ’69, ’23 D.P.S. Only a year later, the same students would create a gallery display in the Sharidan Arts Building celebrating their growing talent and continued connection to Sandy.

Sandy and Dr. Placido A. Corpora ’23 D.P.S. support the Sandra Corpora ’69 Presidential Scholarship for Art Studies. The scholarship was established in 2007, and since then, Sandy and Pat have provided funding to numerous students and given to many KU areas of need, including the Skye’s the Limit Emergency Fund and the Corpora Art Student Workshop Program. Touring Sandy’s Bethlehem, PA studio last year was a special moment for Brook and Hailey as they learned about the artist’s work and creative processes. In April, 2025, they would get to return the favor.

Brook and Hailey are both sophomore studio art majors. The passion within their work, which filled a gallery wall, was evident. The display included paintings, photographs, sculptures, and ceramic, with inspirations ranging from still life to Greek art to jazz music. Sandy was joined by KU’s president, Dr. Kenneth S. Hawkinson, and the two were delighted to hear about each piece.

“Putting together the pop-up exhibition for Dr. Corpora was equally nerve-wracking and exciting,” Hailey shared. “When choosing artworks to display, my chief goal was to show that I had used this past year for creative experimentation and personal growth.”

But sharing their work also meant that Brook and Hailey could learn more from Sandy, who described herself as having been an artist “all her life.” Sandy asked questions and engaged thoughtfully with each piece as her discussion with Brook, Hailey, and President Hawkinson included artistic influences, stories of creating art while traveling, and even museum recommendations.

“I loved that I got the opportunity to share my work with such an experienced and knowledgeable painter such as Dr. Corpora,” Brook said. “It was great to get insight from her and hear what she had to say about our pieces.”

Following the artwork tour, everyone enjoyed lunch before taking a trip around Sharidan, where they explored more student art and saw the cherry trees—which were in full bloom—from an overlooking view. Brook and Hailey’s gratitude was evident as each gifted Sandy a piece of art: a linocut owl from Brook and a photograph of a dog from Hailey.

“It meant so much to me to receive generous praise, detailed feedback, and invaluable advice from Dr. Corpora, whose work and career I admire greatly,” Hailey said. “The genuine interest she showed in my art was very touching, and I enjoyed sharing my inspirations and processes with her. Our meetings are always so wonderful; she is a truly kind and giving person whose passions for fine art and philanthropy have changed my life.”

The Kutztown University Foundation couldn’t agree more. Thank you to Brook and Hailey for creating such a beautiful gallery, and to Sandy and Pat for their generosity!