Before coming to WMCAT to start the photo program in 2005, Dennis spent many years teaching, first as an art teacher at the middle school level, then as a photo instructor at the high school and college level, at Grand Rapids Community College and Kendall College of Art and Design. He has a Bachelor’s degree in painting and drawing from CMU and a Master’s degree in photography.
As a working artist, Dennis has exhibited and won many awards for his hand-colored photographs and digital images, and his work is found in public and private collections across the U.S. and abroad. Many of his students have gone on to professional careers in the arts, and he was named “Teacher of the Year” in 1996 at the Michigan Youth Arts Festival. A large number of his WMCAT students have won Regional and National awards for their photography. He also spent a good deal of time in arts and non-profit administration with Very Special Arts, Michigan Nature Association, Oak House, and WMCAT.
Recipient of the “Inspiration Award” from WMCAT in 2016, Dennis has a passion for teaching and photography, but running, reading, gardening and laughing are also some of his favorite things to do.
