Gail Scholtes blazed trails as the first full-time female faculty member in Phoenix College's Art Department in 1968. While working, she studied summers and part-time to earn two Doctorates: a Doctorate in Visual Arts Studio Art (DA), and a Doctorate of Education - Art and Curriculum Design (PhD) - often celebrating being a “Double-Doc”. She regularly took studio art courses around the country and in Mexico to improve and expand her teaching capabilities.
Gail's innovative spirit flourished during her 49 years at PC, pioneering curriculum in Computer Art and Design and introducing popular courses in Metals and Glass Art. Even after being honored as an Emeritus Professor, she continued teaching and exhibiting her fused glass creations nationwide.
William “Bill” Jamieson was a landscape designer, a lifetime member of the Phoenix Bonsai Society, and a creative and highly competent artist known for his works in sculpture, ceramics, and, most notably, lost-wax jewelry. He began teaching the lost wax jewelry classes at PC as an adjunct art faculty member in the late 1970s.
Between the two of them, they dedicated nearly nine decades to teaching art at Phoenix College.
Gail and Bill Jamieson were married for 47 years, and they shared a passion-filled life of art, education, and travel. Their love for travel took them across the globe, from the vibrant streets of Barcelona, Gail's cherished city, to the serene shores of Hawaii, Bill’s beloved retreat. Each journey enriched their lives and fueled their artistic endeavors.
Over the years, Bill and Gail adopted a few generations of Schnauzers. As a member of the “Jumping Chollas,” Bill became proficient at agility training, winning a rather impressive number of ribbons and awards with Blitzy and Rennen, two of their beloved dogs.
Gail passed away in 2021 and is remembered as a pioneering artist and educator with a deep love for creating beautiful works and for teaching learners of all ages. Bill followed in 2023 and is remembered fondly for his gentle spirit, dog whispering, love of the environment, and artistic prowess in the art of lost-wax jewelry.
Their generosity lives on through the newly established Gail & William Jamieson Scholarship, supporting aspiring student artists to pursue their creative journeys at Phoenix College. Gail and Bill’s enduring legacy continues to inspire and nurture the next generation of artistic talent through an endowed scholarship – providing support for tuition and educational supplies – in perpetuity.
On Thursday, November 21st, PC hosted the GrandiOSO Alumni Reunion, a memorable event that, among other activities, featured the exciting reveal of a generous donation from the Jamieson family to Phoenix College. The experience was described by Ginny Brouch, a close friend of the Jamieson’s who was in attendance, as “one of the most memorable events she ever attended.”
The evening included touching tributes, such as a dedicated Jamieson table with six friends and family members, heartfelt words from Phoenix College President Dr. Britt, and moving testimonials from PC students. Adding to the celebration, the PC Mariachi Osos del Valle performed Gail’s favorite Mariachi song, “Guadalajara,” and a confetti explosion accompanied the unveiling of the $200,000 inaugural donation check to Phoenix College – as part of the Maricopa Community College District’s three-year EmpowerED for Student Success Campaign.
The tribute was a gentle, meaningful reflection of the Jamiesons’ legacy, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who gathered to celebrate their remarkable impact.
Want to create a scholarship in the name of a loved one or create your family's legacy at Phoenix College? Endowments may be created over several years, and you can help set the criteria by which the scholarship is awarded. Learn more about establishing an endowed fund at phoenixcollege.edu/giving/tribute-memorial-gifts.