"The Gallery will come to occupy a fundamental position in the mission of Sweet Briar, encouraging cultural development and ultimately facilitating the integration of the fine arts into the learning experience of all the students of the college... It will be thought of by all as underlining, or perhaps as reflecting, the intellectual and humanistic ideals of Sweet Briar College."

-Christopher Witcombe, Professor of Art History memorandum addressed to the planning committee for the dediction of the new art gallery, 1983-84

The 20th anniversary of the Anne Gary Pannell Art Gallery was celebrated during the 2004-2005 academic year. A number of exhibitions and lectures were scheduled in honor of the occastion. Guest speakers and special exhibitions were highlights of the year.