Alumni Q&A with Dr. Jocelyn Rainey ‘98

Jocelyn Rainey, Ph.D., earned her master’s degree from the Wayne State University College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts in 1998. She is an artist, educator, community leader and works as the campus dean of student services for Wayne County Community College District. Last year, Rainey became a member of the Wayne State Alumni Association Board of Directors.

In 2006, Rainey founded the Finding Mona Lisa 313 program, inspired by her experiences as a teacher at Detroit’s Loyola High School. Since then, the program has helped more than 100 Detroit students visit 10 countries to explore famous art while immersing themselves in different languages and cultures. In September 2024, Rainey received the President’s Volunteer Service Award for her work with Finding Mona Lisa 313.

We spoke with Rainey to learn how her experiences at Wayne State influenced her art, career and commitment to her Detroit community.

Why did you choose to study at Wayne State?

I chose Wayne State not solely for its relationship with Detroit but because all the resources necessary for my study are available here. Detroit exemplifies resilience, ingenuity and invention, which Wayne State embraces. I developed my technique as an artist while remaining rooted in the city that inspires me.

The rich cultural heritage, dynamic arts environment and profound sense of community in Detroit have been essential to my identity and profession. Wayne State offered an ideal setting to integrate my scholarly and artistic ambitions with my dedication to this city.

My decision to continue my studies here was motivated by more than convenience; it was an attempt to connect with a community of organizations, individuals and experiences that captures Detroit's spirit. Wayne State provided me an unparalleled place for learning, creativity and personal development.

How did your Wayne State experience shape your career?

As an M.A. student at Wayne State, having access to my studio and working alongside professional artists prepared me for my career and deepened my passion for art. Being in an environment surrounded by fellow artists, each with their unique perspectives and practices, pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t imagined.

Professional artists who visited or taught at Wayne State provided invaluable mentorship. Their guidance on building a portfolio, curating exhibitions and confidently presenting my work gave me a solid foundation for stepping into the professional art scene.

Wayne State also provided opportunities to exhibit my work in university galleries and engage with Detroit’s broader arts community. These experiences helped me understand the importance of connecting with audiences, building relationships and being part of a creative network. I learned that pursuing an art career isn’t just about making work; it’s about fostering dialogue, contributing to a community and learning from others.

Perhaps most importantly, my time at Wayne State helped me realize the power of art as a tool for storytelling, advocacy and social change. Through my Wayne State education, mentorship and experiences, I gained the confidence to pursue my passions with purpose and clarity. I was prepared not only to succeed in my career, but to use my art to connect with others and make a meaningful impact.

How did Wayne State influence the development of Finding Mona Lisa 313?

The connections I made with faculty, fellow students and the diverse Detroit community during my time at WSU were invaluable. Wayne State taught me the importance of academic rigor and cultural relevance, which are key to the program’s mission.

Although Finding Mona Lisa 313 didn’t receive the support I had hoped for initially, I gained the confidence and resilience at Wayne State to keep pushing forward. The program is designed to engage underserved communities through art and foster a sense of pride and self-awareness, which was influenced by Wayne State’s emphasis on community engagement.

As the program continues, I hope the lessons learned, relationships built and leadership skills honed during my time at Wayne State will open new opportunities for support and collaboration. Our work is more important than ever, and I’m optimistic about what’s to come.

Why did you join the Wayne State Alumni Association Board of Directors?

As a proud alumna, serving on the board allows me to contribute to the institution that significantly influenced my career and interests. I want to help address the financial difficulties many students encounter. Students in the arts often struggle to fund their creative pursuits while managing schoolwork and other financial responsibilities. I aspire to champion scholarships, fellowships and projects that relieve economic challenges while enabling students to follow their passions. 

I will advocate for the arts and humanities departments by promoting resources and opportunities that underscore the importance of these fields, which are crucial for critical thinking, creativity and cultural awareness. I aim to establish a community of support that links graduates with current students, celebrating the accomplishments of people in these professions and motivating future generations to see their potential.

I seek to foster a culture in which Wayne State students and alumni, especially in the arts and humanities, realize their value and connection to a rich tradition of creativity and philanthropy. It is a privilege to contribute to advancing Wayne State's mission to promote excellence, accessibility and opportunity for all.

Do you have a favorite Wayne State memory?

One of my favorite Wayne State memories was when the late Al Loving, a renowned abstract artist, came to campus as a visiting faculty member. As someone who grew up in Detroit and admired his work, his teaching was transformative. His presence in the studio felt like a masterclass, not just in art but in navigating life as a professional artist.

He shared so much wisdom about the journey of an abstract artist, especially the importance of staying true to your vision while learning to adapt to a constantly evolving art world. He spoke candidly about the challenges and breakthroughs that defined his career, and how he created work that was unapologetically his. His honesty and vulnerability left a lasting effect on me.

Beyond the art itself, he gave priceless advice about the professional side of being an artist: how to build relationships, present your work and find opportunities to showcase your vision. Al made it clear that being an artist is not just about talent but perseverance, community and knowing how to advocate for yourself.

How would you summarize your Wayne State story?

My narrative at Wayne State is a complex interweaving of personal and professional relationships that have profoundly influenced my identity. Wayne State was not merely the institution where I obtained my master’s degree; it represented a personal legacy and a supportive community that advanced my progress.

My sister, Mildred Duffie, earned her degree from the College of Education, devoting her life to empowering children. My niece, Faith Duffie, earned her degree in fashion design, exemplifying how Wayne State encourages creativity across fields.

Two of my most meaningful mentors, Gilda Snowden and Shirley Woodson, graduated from Wayne State's art program. Their mentorship shaped my artistic development and highlighted the remarkable history of talent and leadership Wayne State has cultivated.

Wayne State has been a foundational institution for my family, students and mentors. It is a hub where art, education and community converge. This history inspires me to champion resources, scholarships and opportunities for new generations of Wayne State students, guaranteeing their ability to achieve their utmost potential.