Margaret Neill’s journey as an artist began in the familiar surroundings of her hometown, Hiram, Ohio. Raised among the rhythms of a college town, Margaret always admired Hiram College’s campus and culture. It was only natural that she chose to become a part of it herself. 

A 1978 graduate with a degree in studio art and art history, Margaret has since built a thriving career as an abstract artist based in Brooklyn, New York. Her work appears in public and healing spaces across the country, including NYU Langone, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and The Mayo Clinic. “I’m proud that people see my work every day, especially in places where calm, reflection, and comfort matter most,” she says. 

Margaret’s dedication to art extends beyond the canvas. For three decades, she has donated artwork to the annual benefit of the Gentler International Drawing Center in Red Hook, Brooklyn, reflecting a lifelong commitment to community through creativity. 

Hiram gave me confidence to express my ideas, to problem solve, and to stay curious. It taught me to ask for help and to truly listen.

Her time at Hiram helped form this foundation. Margaret recalls the college library and Gelbke art studios as favorite spots, and credits professors George and Susan Schroeder, as well as her parents, with expanding her world through art, conversation, and curiosity. She also found joy in campus life, playing on the field hockey team and working at the James H. Barrow Biological Field Station, bringing animals into schools to spark wonder in young students. 

Though not currently involved in alumni activities, Margaret has stayed connected in meaningful ways over the years—returning to campus to exhibit her work, lead student critiques, give lectures, and even create a collaborative wall drawing in the old library with local elementary school students. 

To today’s students, she offers this advice: “Get to know your librarian. Take all kinds of classes. And value your time, it goes quickly.” 

For Margaret Neill, Hiram College is more than a starting point; it’s the foundation of a life lived creatively, thoughtfully, and with deep gratitude for the community that shaped her.