"The Military Portrait" with Cornell McGhee

Faces of Service is a curated exploration of the art, history, and meaning behind portraits of military personnel. This program delves into the unique visual language of military portraiture in formal studio sessions. These images honor service, preserve personal stories, and reflect the evolving identity of those in uniform. • Through a blend of historical archives, contemporary photography, and hands-on demonstrations, participants will: • Discover the traditions and symbolism embedded in military portraiture across different eras and branches of service. • Learn professional techniques for lighting, composition, and posing that convey dignity, strength, and authenticity. • Engage with real stories behind the images, connecting faces to the lived experiences of service members.

Dr. Cornell T. McGhee is a member of the Professional Photographers of America and holds the designations of Master Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, and Certified Professional Photographer. He founded C.T. McGhee Photography in 2013, and his portfolio includes glamour, portraiture, nature, and aviation photography. Cornell also serves as the 2026 President of the Texas Professional Photographers Association. Lieutenant Colonel McGhee served on active duty for twenty-three years. Assignments included service in Texas, Virginia, Kentucky, Germany, and Washington, D.C. From 2021 to 2024, Cornell served as Director of Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps Programs for the Houston Independent School District. He supervised 60 instructors who, in turn, mentored 4,500 cadets at 24 high schools and 5 middle schools. Cornell earned a BA in Political Science from the University of Texas at Austin. He earned an MS in Management from the Florida Institute of Technology and an MA in Operational Planning from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. In 2011, he earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Cornell and his wife Karen have been married for forty-four years; they have two adult sons and one daughter-in-law.

*Meal is an extra fee and optional.

6:30pm - Dinner* and Social Hour

7:00pm - Program Begins

9:00pm - Conclusion