Associate Chair of Art and Design Chris Stagl recently got the opportunity to put down the gradebook and pick up the camera to collaborate with Troy Regional hospital and indirectly one of his recent graduates – now employed alumni, Emily Robbins. The 23 photography pieces are a collection of work that Stagl was commissioned to create this past summer and includes notable locations such as Downtown Troy, Pike County Lake, Charles Henderson High School and even some of the University’s hidden gems.

“When I got to TROY in 2020, I had made a series of a dozen or so photography pieces titled, ‘What Remains’ and I thought to myself, I bet I can leverage some of that work to expedite this process,” said Stagl. “But the more I talked to Emily and Troy Regional about this project, the more I realized I needed to look at the town I work in every day with fresh eyes – and I’m really glad I did. This body of work not only encompasses Troy Regional’s view of the importance of the surrounding area but just some striking, everyday spots, that we can easily take for granted. I tried my best to pay homage to the various locations by making them look as raw, natural and real as possible.”

“Working with a previous professor in this capacity was a lot of fun actually,” said Design Alumna Emily Robbins. “Professor Stagl was hired by the hospital because the photographs he posted on Instagram of places he previously visited were very real and relatable, and we knew he could work within our parameters; A much-needed visual addition to our workspaces.”

The working relationship between Stagl and Robbins cannot be overstated and definitely shines a light on a very teachable moment that Stagl talks about all the time in his thesis class with Professor Greg Skaggs, which is not burning bridges when you’re studying at TROY and transitioning into the industry.

“I think it goes without saying that Emily was a great design student when she studied here,” Stagl said. “She landed an important internship with the hospital and subsequently Studio 207, also made up of design alumni, and she remained professional and positive throughout her progression. This allows me, and others, to trust and recommend her for an important role like in the marketing department with Troy Regional – and then getting to do a project for her two months after she graduates is a full cycle of success in and out of the classroom.”

Stagl’s work can be seen in the Troy Regional Physician’s Clinic office.

“I hope they find some more wall space because I had a lot of fun beautifying the facilities and while I don’t wish anyone ill, at least while you’re there you can take in the sights,” Stagl commented.

Troy Regional has served residents in a seven-county area since 1969. In addition to recruiting providers to meet the needs of these growing communities, Troy Regional continues to expand services and upgrade facilities to provide exceptional healthcare close to home.