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Much praise and favorable comment was expressed by the scores of visitors who flocked to the north studios in the Applied Science building to view this feature of the commencement week ceremonies. Perhaps the most striking work in oil at the exhibition is the thesis of Miss Alma Thomas. The canvas, two feet wide and seven feet long is divided into three panels and depicts thirteen human figures against a harmonious background of blues and purples, weaving through the mystic mazes of a classical dance. In addition to her thesis, Miss Thomas also has on display a series of continue design plates, executed in watercolor, which comprise the first work of their kind to be placed on display a the university....39 Becoming A Professional: Finding Her Niche 1924-1960 Her first teaching appointment after graduation from Howard Univserity was as assistant director of drawing at The Cheyney Training School for Teachers , Pennsylvania, in September, 1924, where she met Laura Wheeler Waring (1887-1948), professor of art. A painter of distinction, Waring was known for her interpretive portraits, as evidenced in Portrait of Alma Thomas, 40 oil ca. 1945. A compassionate portrait rendered 21 years after their meeting, Waring's realism reveals her affection for the subject, her deft handling of color, and her bravura brush work. Thomas received a letter from Harnett Wilkinson, superintendent of Colored Schools in the District of Columbia, dated November 20, 1924, informing her of an appointment to teach in the school system due to the death of Ms. F. Brooks, who was number one on the list of eligibles to teach drawing. 15