Steve Hilton, endowed professor of art in Midwestern State University’s Lamar D. Fain College of Fine Arts, is the recipient of the 2024 Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Research Award. The award was presented Friday, March 1, by Texas Tech University System Chancellor Tedd L. Mitchell, M.D., and MSU Texas President Stacia Haynie.

The research award is one of two awards presented annually at each TTU System component institution through the Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Teaching and Research Awards (CCDTRA) that recognize academic excellence across the TTU System.

“Receiving the 2024 Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Research Award is an honor that validates the years of pursuit of my art practice,” Hilton said. “It not only serves as recognition of my contributions to the field of ceramics, but more importantly, it fuels my passion to continue in my research endeavors, which I’m hopeful will set a good example for my students.”

Haney said she was not surprised Hilton was named an award recipient. “Steve has made numerous contributions to the field of ceramics, to the university, and to the community,” Haynie said. “His award-winning three-story mural in downtown Wichita Falls and his organization of Empty Bowls, which raises funds for the Wichita Falls Area Food Bank, are just two examples of his accomplishments.”

Hilton was awarded Teacher of the Year by the Fain College of Fine Arts in 2012 and 2014. He received his MFA from Arizona State University, as well as a master’s degree in art education and a bachelor’s degree in environmental geology from Missouri State University. He has taught at MSU Texas since 2006.

The annual High School Art Competition, which brings area high school students, teachers, and parents in contact with MSU Texas, is organized by Hilton. His artwork is on display in 38 museums and galleries around the world.