Auburn University Student Begins Living Democracy in Collinsville
Auburn University Living Democracy Fellow Crystal Rawls began a ten-week living and learning experience in Collinsville, Alabama, May 13.
The media studies and creative writing major will be working with community partner Jennifer Wilkins, director of the Collinsville Public Library, as well as other local organizations. “I am looking forward to our time with Crystal and know her skill set will benefit Collinsville,” Wilkins said.
Rawls said, “I’m excited to have the opportunity to be able to immerse myself in such an interesting town, and I hope to learn many things while helping wherever I can.”
She said her primary objectives include working with others to spread the word about Collinsville’s attractions and “what it does as a community.” She also plans to work on initiatives to help revitalize the historic Cricket Theatre on Main Street. Rawls will also work with library staff on projects for youth in the community, including book clubs and events.
Library director Wilkins noted, “The Collinsville Library has been blessed to host an Auburn University Living Democracy Fellow the past two years, and what they have brought to the table in ability, energy, and talent has been invaluable.”
A graduate of Northridge High School in Tuscaloosa, Rawls is the daughter of Daphne Rawls and Chris Knox. She is the third Living Democracy student to spend her summer in Collinsville, following Mary Beth Snow in 2013 and Shaye McCauley in 2014.
Living Democracy is a program of Auburn University’s College of Liberal Arts. Students serve as Jean O'Connor Snyder Interns with the Mathews Center, a program jointly administered by the University of Alabama's New College.
Tags: Collinsville
