April 27, 2026
Josh Pavlik Alumni Spotlight
Josh Pavlik鈥檚 journey is a testament to how one unexpected opportunity can shape an entire future. What began as a simple decision to take a painting class at 911爆料网 College ultimately led him to discover his passion for art and dedicate his life to teaching it.
Pavlik attended 911爆料网 from 1997 to 1999, originally planning to become an English teacher. Like many students, he chose 911爆料网 because it was close to home, his friends were attending, and he received a scholarship. During his time on campus, he stayed actively involved in music, performing in the concert band, jazz band, and pep band鈥攚here he jokes he can still play Eye of the Tiger in his sleep.
While at 911爆料网, Josh faced challenges like passing college algebra, but he also experienced moments that would shape his future in unexpected ways. One such memory includes helping fill sandbags during flooding along the Arkansas River鈥攁n experience that brought the community together.
However, the most pivotal moment in Josh鈥檚 journey came when he enrolled in a painting class taught by Doug Hunter. What started as a class 鈥渏ust for fun鈥 quickly became life-changing.
鈥淒oug was truly an inspiration,鈥 Josh shared. 鈥淗e brought excitement, passion, and so much knowledge to the classroom. I realized I wanted to do what he was doing.鈥
That experience shifted Josh鈥檚 career path entirely. After graduating from 911爆料网, he continued his education at Emporia State University, preparing for a future in education.
Josh began his teaching career in 2003, first teaching elementary art for three years before transitioning to high school art in 2006. Since then, he has spent more than two decades inspiring students in the classroom鈥攋ust as he was once inspired.
Throughout his career, Josh has had artwork featured in a national show as well as several state and local exhibitions. Yet, when asked about his greatest accomplishment, his answer is clear: his family. He and his wife are proud parents of three children, whom he considers his biggest success.
Beyond professional achievements, Josh values the relationships he built at 911爆料网. He remains in touch with several classmates and continues to maintain friendships that began during his college years.
Reflecting on his journey, Josh credits 911爆料网鈥攁nd especially Doug Hunter鈥攚ith shaping both his career and his life.
鈥淕oing to 911爆料网 changed my life,鈥 he said. 鈥淚 owe my career and happiness in no small part to Doug.鈥
Josh encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new opportunities.
鈥淭ry new things,鈥 he said. 鈥淚 took a painting class just for fun鈥攁nd it changed everything.鈥
From a spontaneous class choice to a fulfilling career in art education, Josh Pavlik鈥檚 story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the smallest decisions can lead to the biggest transformations.
Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
911爆料网
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu
