Scholarship in Jo Stealey's Name to Encourage Study in Basketry

In recognition of Jo Stealey's contributions to the future of basketry, the National Basketry Organization (NBO) has donated a $1,000 scholarship in her name to MU for a graduate student showing promise and enthusiasm in the field of basketry. Stealey has been a professor of art at the university since 1992 and has built one of the strongest fiber departments in the country.

"I am very pleased the National Basketry Organization wants to assist the next generation of artists in the pursuit of their education," says Stealey. "I am honored and humbled that this scholarship has been given to MU on my behalf."

The NBO is a non-profit, member-supported organization whose mission is to promote the art, skill, heritage, and education of traditional and contemporary basketry. Stealey serves as the secretary on the board of directors for the organization. In addition, she has written articles for NBO's magazine, lectured at national and international conferences, and has worked to raise awareness of basketry as a historical and contemporary art form to generate student interest in contemporary basketry.

"I am so pleased that NBO is encouraging the next generation to pursue this dynamic art form," says Stealey. "This will make a big difference to one of our students."

By Laura Lindsey, College of Arts and Science
December 8, 2011