Kim Pearce

Kim
 Kim Pearce

 

Kim Pearce was a member of the Class of 1974 of Delaware Valley High School. An Honors Graduate of the Art Institute of Philadelphia, he received an Associate’s Degree in Commercial Art with a focus in advertising. He continued his education at the State University of New York at Oswego, New York, earning a New York State Teacher’s Certification. He began his career as Account Manager and Designer for Keystone Graphics System. He later became Director of the Art Department and the Supervisor of Departmental Personnel for Matthew’s International Corporation. Since 1985 he has served a Instructor of Commercial Art with a focus on graphic art at the New York State Correctional Facility in Fishkill, New York. During his tenure he was nominated for Teacher of the Year. Respect and admiration for him come from numerous sources. A Deputy Director at the Correctional Facility called him “a genuinely compassionate person who cares about people and about his work.” This director indicated that Kim teaches several times each month in the Regional Medical Unit bringing a sense of joy and accomplishments to these Patients.  The Vocational Education Supervisor noted that Kim’s understanding has had a profound effect on his students as he shares with them his exceptional skill and professionalism. A former student from the terminally ill unit noted Kim’s patience and understanding, adding that “…guys up here actually can’t wait for his next class…a good man, fine instructor, great communicator, and a very caring teacher. Throughout his life, Kim has been ever-mindful of his deep roots to his community. His paintings depict the intrinsic beauty of the Tri-State area; his portraits capture the strength and nobility of local residents. Understanding the pain and suffering parents feel at the loss of a child, Kim, without recompense, quietly and thoughtfully creates personal remembrances for them as a tribute to their loved ones. In that same spirit, he has depicted caring and beautifully rendered portraits of numerous deceased friends and relatives, including local firefighter Doug Miller who perished during 9/11. The prints of his stirring rendition of the iconic photo of flag-raising actions of firefighters at ground zero helped raise over $16,000 for the Miller family.