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Future aviation leaders, BraveHeart artists build community through art exhibition

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Students in the School of Aviation's Aviation Leadership course supported artists at the BraveHeart Center for Place and Purpose's (BCPP) annual art exhibition, highlighting the importance of community and creative expression.

BCPP is a joint outreach program of the College of Liberal Arts' social work program and First Presbyterian Church of Auburn. The program provides growth opportunities in health and fitness, academia, life and job skills, community outreach and creative arts exploration for adults with moderate to severe disabilities.

After the visit, students reported being moved by the artists' excitement and creativity.

"Getting to see the faces of these individuals made my day. They were ecstatic to have supporters and I was happy to be supporting," said Hayden Summers, a junior in aviation management. "This can really make a person take a step back and look at the broader picture. This was a great exercise for people to see that everyone has a place in society."

Aviation Leadership students viewed photographs of nature, portraits, landmarks including the Alabama State Capitol building and architecture around campus. Many BCPP participants have difficulty communicating verbally, so activities such as the art exhibition provide an important outlet for creative expression.

Graduate School Director of Professional Development and Aviation Leadership Instructor Sheena Stewart said the assignment also teaches students new approaches to leadership and community outreach.

"As part of their class assignment, the students were tasked with expanding their thoughts around what leadership success looks like and being involved in the community," Stewart said. "This is the second year my course has included this assignment, and I continue to see great value in it as we prepare and launch our future graduates."

Stewart also recognized Graduate School Dean George Flowers and Communications and Marketing Specialist Libby Anderson for their support of the art exhibition.

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Tags: Community, Outreach and Engagement Students Aviation Social Work