Art History, AI, and Visual Culture
James L. Hutson has been celebrated as one of ‘America’s Most Influential and Leading Educators’ by the International Association of Who’s Who, marking another milestone in a career devoted to academic excellence and innovation.
Dr. Hutson currently serves as a professor and department head of art history and visual culture in the College of Arts and Humanities at Lindenwood University in Saint Charles, Missouri. Since joining Lindenwood in 2010, he has held various impactful roles, including director of online and graduate programs, chair of art history, and assistant dean of online and graduate programs. Additionally, as an extended reality (XR) disruptor since 2022, his influence extends beyond traditional academia into emerging technologies.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Hutson has become a pioneer in online education, evidenced by his incredible track record. He has taught over 300 online courses and designed more than 25 online degree programs, several of which have received national recognition, including four ranked among the top five in the country. Under his leadership, Lindenwood University established the Immersive Arts and Culture Hub and XR/Gaming Lab, where he introduced generative artificial intelligence (AI) and XR tools into educational programming. These groundbreaking initiatives aim to provide immersive, engaging learning experiences that foster deeper understanding and long-term retention.
Dr. Hutson’s past roles also include teaching appointments at the University of Maryland (2006–2010), American University (2007–2010), and Towson University (2008–2010), where he made significant contributions as a lecturer and visiting adjunct professor.
Beyond academia, Dr. Hutson leverages his expertise to drive social impact through his work with the Regenerative Artificial Intelligence Laboratory in San Francisco. This nonprofit division of CrowdDoing applies generative AI to address pressing issues such as homelessness and environmental challenges. Additionally, Dr. Hutson has been active as a consultant for the Ithaca Research Group and previously served as an independent contractor and advanced placement art history reader for The College Board.
Dr. Hutson is also a prolific researcher, holding an impressive portfolio of achievements. With more than 100 authored articles and books to his name, along with countless grants and editorial roles, his research spans a variety of disciplines. One of his most cited works explores the use of virtual reality in supporting individuals with autism.
Dr. Hutson boasts an extensive academic background, beginning with an Associate of Arts in arts and art studies from Rogers State University in 1999. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts in art history, and Doctorate in art history and archaeology from the University of Tulsa, Southern Methodist University, and the University of Maryland, respectively. More recently, he earned dual master’s degrees in leadership and game design from Lindenwood University in 2021 and 2022 and a Doctorate in artificial intelligence from Capitol Technology University in 2023.
Dedicated to professional growth and collaboration, Dr. Hutson maintains affiliations with several leading organizations, including the Association for Computers and the Humanities, the International Game Developers Association, the United States Distance Learning Association, and the International Artificial Intelligence in Education Society.
Dr. Hutson’s dedication to education and research has earned him numerous accolades. He was named among the Top Five Remarkable Men in Education by The Knowledge Review Magazine in 2023. That same year, he was featured as a Visionary Leader Bringing Ideas in Education and Research by CIO Leaders and recognized as the Top Lead XR Disruptor of the Year by the International Association of Top Professionals. He also received a Service Award and the President’s Research, Innovation, and Development Towards Excellence (PRIDE) Fund Grant from Lindenwood University in both 2019 and 2021.
Dr. James L. Hutson exemplifies how combining innovation with a relentless commitment to education can transform industries and inspire progress. His work continues to leave a profound impact on students, educators, and the broader global community.