Charis Carmichael Braun, Class of 2004, graduated from Bethany Lutheran College with a major in Studio Art. She later earned her MFA at the New York Academy of Art and now serves as a fine artist, graphic designer, and arts administrator. In her work, she teaches art history, manages major exhibitions, leads visual communications for international artist residency programs, and contributes to arts nonprofits—bridging creative expression with organizational leadership through roles that span the classroom, the studio, and community spaces.

Charis is motivated by the intersections of ideas, people, and environment: “I am drawn to the place where frictions between ideas, people, and their environments overlap. With expressive brushwork, I push and pull the environment around a person while focusing in on the terrain of the human body.”

Reflecting on her Bethany experience, she shares how her conservative arts education built both character and creative confidence: “It wasn’t easy at first to see the deep impact Bethany has on its students, but I see it more clearly now as a professional. I’m able to think on my feet and communicate my ideas clearly… I make intuitive connections based on my liberal arts education, am comfortable in my own skin, and confident in my abilities.”

Her journey illustrates how a Studio Art major from Bethany Lutheran College can lead to a diverse, mission‑aligned career in the arts—where artistic excellence meets leadership, community engagement, and intellectual curiosity. Charis continues to inspire through her dual commitment to creating artwork and empowering others in their artistic and professional pursuits.