Programs completed at APU: Master of Arts Program
Project Title: Examining the Collaborative Process of Performing Arts as Resistance and Transformation Regarding the Industrial Food System
Hometown: Stillwater, Oklahoma
Best Classes at APU: Since MAP is an independent study program, I did not take classes in a traditional sense. I worked with a series of mentors who guided me through my process. Gina Miller advised me throughout the research component and encouraged me to focus on the creative process for my project. This culminated in creating a collaborative community performance held at the Kellogg Campus this past summer. Combining farming and the arts is something I have been contemplating for the past 10 years so to finally be able to pull my passions together was an incredible journey.
What is your favorite APU memory? My favorite APU memory is less related to my school work, but is tied to my time as staff. (Although, the two always intersected nicely) Over four summers I worked with a team toward growing the APU farmers market. With the help of Chris Pavadore and Paula Cerda, we saw the market go from a stand that most people walked by, to a place where the APU community gathered at lunch and to see what was happening at the farm. We started seeing regular APU shoppers and had great conversations with people who just wanted to visit and learn about local foods. Creating community space around food was a highlight of my APU experience.
What is going to be your next adventure post-APU? In my dream world, I will continue to create artistic productions that focus on community building and restructuring the food system to become more equitable and just. I plan to always have my hands in the dirt in some way, and I hope to be a force of creative collaboration wherever I go.
Any words of wisdom for students working on completing their degrees? I recommend students start looking at the type of job you want now. Even if you’re not ready to apply for them, it will give you a sense of the skills you need to gain while pursuing your degree. That will help guide you to the right internship or research opportunities.
