Co-Curricular Experiences

Appalachian Scholar Service Hours, Year 1 

I served as a photographer for the 2022 Buckeye Hero Hunt, a non-profit event providing disabled veterans of Ohio guided, accessible deer hunting opportunities. As a photographer, I had the opportunity to engage with a surprisingly diverse population of veterans. When carrying a camera I also have the excuse to be observational, capturing the moments of kinship and community made in Appalachian Ohio. 

Appalachian Scholar Service Hours, Year 2 

I served as a photographer for the 2023 Buckeye Hero Hunt again, but was tasked with handling and producing more content. My engagement felt less observational than the year prior, as I held brief interviews with folks to produce a short film for both veterans and the organization. I was challenged to overcome the preconceptions surrounding veterans, and had the opportunity to ameliorate my perspective of their individual experiences.  

Art & Tactile Skills Director, Summer 2024 

For this co-curricular experience, I served as the Arts & Tactile Skills Director at Camp Hugh Taylor Birch located near Yellow Springs, OH. This experience gave me the opportunity to merge Appalachian folk art practices with Scouting America merit badge requirements. While geographically beyond Appalachia, I was able to engage with youth meaningfully and lead workshops based in leathermaking, papermaking, and sustainable art-making. 

Appalachian Scholar Service Hours, Year 3 

I volunteered with Painting & Drawing Professor John Sabraw & True Pigments, helping remove acid mine pollution from local waterways to make into paint. I had the opportunity to get involved with each step of the process, first collecting AMD at a polluted runoff near New Lexington. The pollution is processed at Central Classroom, where it is sifted, exposed to high temperatures, and pulverized.   

Appalachian Scholar Service Hours, Year 4 

For this experience, I partnered with my local school-district at Wellston Intermediate School and served as a designer & muralist. I had the responsibility of creating designs inspired by school spirit, which were turned into stickers as reward incentives for students. I have also designed a mural for the school, which is being completed in May.