Peter A. Blacksberg visits the School for American Crafts

Peter A. Blacksberg, a 1975 alumnus from the School of Photography, spent an afternoon with students from the School for American Crafts’ furniture design program, demonstrating woodturning techniques. “I was drawn to RIT in 1970 when I saw the variety of creative and technical studies going on,” said Blacksberg. “Woodturning has been an interest of mine long before attending RIT and I wanted to share my knowledge and enthusiasm for the craft/artform in person with the students.” In past years, Blacksberg has sponsored visits from a documentary film maker, (kingsparkmovie.com) digital artist (ipadportraits.com) and last spring he arranged for the visit of NASA astronaut and photographer Donald Pettit. “I encourage alums to get involved. You will get back what you bring back.” Peter is also dedicated to helping college students succeed upon graduation through a new company Next Great Step and through direct help in the form of students loans: artdesign.rit.edu/blacksberg-loan.