Louis Mendez was a versatile artist in many media. His work explored human and animal forms with equal intensity in large-scale sculpture, graphic images, mask designs, traditional ceramics, graphics photography and painting. Born in New York City, Mendez earned BFA and MFA degrees in industrial design from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. The artist was a recipient of a Louis Comfort Tiffany award for design and development of large-scale ceramic art in architectural settings. Although he always maintained an independent studio and active exhibition schedule, Mendez also held professional positions in both industry and higher education. His work is included in numerous public and private collections in the Americas, Europe, Australia and Asia.

In recognition of his transformative student years at Alfred, members of the Artist's Family have established the Louis Mendez '52 Endowed Fund to support travel for educational purposes for Alfred University students enrolled in the School of Art & Design. During his long and highly productive career, Mendez derived great inspiration from his extensive travels.  He was an ardent advocate for the efficacy of organized and purposeful travel to shape students' perceptions of others and themselves, as well as the connections we all share across time and cultures.  Opportunities made possible by this fund will complement students' studio work and studies, connecting them with other artists and the world of art in ways essential to achieving maturity in their personal and professional development.