Communication & Fine Arts

This degree path is part of Oklahoma’s Reach Higher program. NEO offers the option of earning an Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science. Majors are available with concentrations in Business Administration or General Studies.

Kah-Ne-You-Ah Hall is home to the Charles Banks Wilson Art and Cultural Education Center, which houses both the Art Program and the American Indian Center for Excellence. A 1930s WPA project that originally served as a women’s dormitory, the newly renovated Kah-Ne Hall combines its historic facade with a contemporary urban loft interior. Art facilities include gallery space for exhibitions, classrooms with digital projectors, a computer lab, a 3D studio containing workspaces and potters’ wheels and a large 2D studio with arched windows on three sides that allow an abundance of natural lighting.

Commons Hall is the home to the vocal music program at NEO. The Hall includes a 120-seat auditorium, which is used for multiple college and community events throughout the year. The Hall also includes many practice rooms for student rehearsal and private music lessons.

Commons Hall was named after Senator Al Commons, Nebraska State Senator from 1928 to 1936. Senator Commons was influential in the establishment of NEO College. For many years, Commons Hall was a residence hall for students. In 2008, the hall was renovated into a modern instructional area and intimate, acoustically-sound performance auditorium.

The Swanson Family Music Hall is home to the instrumental music program. The band room is used for marching band, concert band, jazz band, and pep band rehearsals and as well as small group practice.

The Swanson Family Music Room was named after Dr. Robert Swanson, an instrumental instructor from 1955 to 1985, and his family, who continue to be supporters of the NEO Band program. The band room was remodeled in 2012 and is an extension of Copen Hall.

The Fine Arts Center houses an 800-seat auditorium that supports music theatre productions, music performances, guest speakers, and community events. The stage facilities include an orchestra pit on an elevator lift. The Fine Art Center includes a green room, dressing rooms, and classrooms to support the theatrical performances and classes.