UWF honors the late John Markowitz with new scholarship endowment

On Oct. 16, the University of West Florida College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities honored the life and work of the late John Markowitz with a memorial reception that celebrated the newly named John Markowitz Memorial Painting Studio and announced a scholarship endowment in his name. Markowitz taught studio art and art history at UWF for 24 years up until his retirement in August 2024.

"John was a wonderful artist, a friend to so many in the UWF community, and a mentor to generations of students," said Dr. David M. Earle, dean of the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities. "UWF strives to honor the great legacy he left behind by continuing to foster a nurturing environment of mentorship for students of the arts to thrive."

Prior to teaching at UWF, Markowitz taught at Millersville University in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, for 11 years. He was also a UWF administrator, serving as program director for the Department of Art and Design from 2010 to 2016 and interim chair of the English Department from 2016 to 2017. For several decades, Markowitz created a caring environment for mentorship and learning. He often considered his interactions with his students to be his greatest achievement in life.

"John loved UWF's Department of Art, its students and colleagues, and he treasured his friendships and connections made throughout the entire University," said Cheri Markowitz, John's wife. "For 25 years, John was dedicated to serving the University as best he could. My family and I are truly grateful for UWF's tribute and commitment to his memory and legacy. I know John would be humbled and profoundly moved by this honor."

Aside from teaching at UWF, Markowitz had an active role in the Pensacola community. As a practicing artist, he had a solo show at the Pensacola Museum of Art in 2021 and won numerous best of show and juror's choice awards. He often worked with oil mediums, creating artwork full of rich light and texture. Markowitz's art can still be seen around UWF and Pensacola, including at the "This Moment Together: A Faculty Show for John Markowitz" exhibition currently on display in The Art Gallery at UWF through Nov. 20.

If you would like to contribute to the John Markowitz Fine Art Legacy Scholarship, visit uwf.edu/give. For more information about the UWF College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, visit uwf.edu/cassh.