Kent State University former Interior Design Professor and Program Director, and talented fiber artist, passed away on February 14, 2024. Kapenekas was the visionary behind the creation of the Interior Design program at Kent State in 1967, initially known as Home Interiors, when she discovered a lack of educational opportunities in Northeast Ohio for the design of interior environments. “It became clear to me that a well-rounded program in Interior Design was possible at Kent State University where all of the necessary related and supporting disciplines were already established – Art, Architecture, Technology, Business, and other programs,” said Mary P. Kapenekas, Professor Emeritus in September 2009.
For over 47 years, Mary taught at her Kent State University alma mater, where she earned her Master of Fine Arts degree. Her students admired her professionalism and approachability; she encouraged them to call her by her first name, fostering a supportive and collaborative community. Among her many classes, lighting was a favorite, reflecting her fascination with the interplay of light on surfaces. Today, the Kapenekas Lighting Lab, located on the third floor of the College of Architecture and Environmental Design, stands as a testament to her passion for teaching.
In 1973, Mary pioneered an interdisciplinary advisory committee that included representatives from interior design, architecture, art, technology, and the professional field, along with a student member representing their cohort. This committee played a crucial role in shaping program policies, managing curriculum, and guiding admissions until its conclusion in 1993.
In her own words, “her love of space, color, texture, balance and rhythm were the main inspiration for her work. Her compositions were mainly abstract and conveyed only what was seen. There was no hidden meaning, no deep philosophical intention in her work. Her passion was the work itself – the visual and tactile nature of the materials and the art process.” Her impressive interior design and art projects have been exhibited throughout the country including the Interior Design Educators’ Council, The Butler Institute of American Art, The Dairy Barn Cultural Center, Cleveland Clinic, and Kent State University.
Her lasting impact on faculty and students is notable among those that knew her well. Pamela Evans, Ph.D, succeeded her as the Interior Design Program Director in 1990. Kapenekas served as a mentor to Dr. Evans during the transition and even after Kapenekas retired, she remained supportive of Dr. Evans and the program.
Mary Kapenekas leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having profoundly shaped the lives of her students, colleagues, and the broader art community. The Interior Design program she nurtured now ranks 13th nationally among programs that firms actively seek to hire from.
To honor her memory and support future interior design students, contributions can be made to the Kent State University Interior Design Scholarship Fund: Kent State Interior Design Scholarship Fund.