Alumni Spotlight - Chuck Close

In the 1950s, Chuck attended Everett's South Junior High School and Everett High School, where he struggled with severe learning disabilities. He was advised that he would never be able to succeed in college, and instead should pursue a career in a trade. Body and fender school was recommended. On the school's advice, he never took algebra, trigonometry, physics, or chemistry. He therefore could not apply to any regular college or university.

At this time, Chuck met Everett Junior College English instructor Marjorie Day, who attended the same church he went to. In Chuck's words, "I can't believe I ever went to church, and it seems so unlikely that I would meet Marjorie there." He told her that all he ever wanted to do was be an artist. Even though Chuck was just 16 and a junior in high school, Marjorie invited him to dinner in her amazing art-filled house to meet Russell, her husband, who taught art at the college.

"They were so supportive and welcoming and encouraged me that I could have a life in art without academic skills," says Chuck. "They said all that mattered was passion, hard work, and a modest amount of talent; I was off and running."

Chuck's two years at Everett Junior College with art instructors Russell Day, Don Tompkins, and Larry Bakke were a life-changing experience. "I owe everything I have accomplished and who I have become to that encounter with Rus and Marjorie Day," declares Chuck.