Events - 19 Aug 22

Exhibition: June 6-August 25

Drawing on utilitarian motifs such as the extension cord, the work references childhood memories of Midwest, working-class life in rural Illinois. Using the tools like trompe l’oeil, the mixed media paintings re-contextualize lowbrow objects like his mom’s bric-a-brac into highbrow paintings that break the rules of flat space. Consequently, the pieces challenge the viewer to reconsider the stereotype of a banal existence in a “flyover state” as one rich in meaning and value.

Hansen Hall 121, Art Gallery

Keynote Session (60 minutes) – Are we truly a DEI-focused institution?
In recent years, colleges have begun using a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) lens to recruit students and promote an
“inclusive” campus environment. This is particularly true for first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students and, most recently,
students from rural communities. But are institutions truly engaging in a student-centered DEI experience from enrollment
through graduation/transfer? In this keynote session, Dr. Matt Newlin will share research and promising practices for helping
FGLI, rural, and other underserved populations enroll and thrive in college.

Breakout Session (60 minutes; presented twice) – Building students’ social & cultural capital: What can we do better?
The goal of this workshop is to introduce and examine the concepts of social and cultural capital and the disparate outcomes for
FGLI and rural students. After discussing the basic tenets of the theories, participants will spend time identifying ways East
Central College is currently preparing students for further education and the workforce. Participants will then brainstorm
tangible, practical ways the institution can improve or expand how they support FGLI and rural students.

HH Theater