As a way to continue the 2015-16 theme of “engagement,” Dr. Angela Browning will be highlighting the extraordinary work of a faculty member each month to share his/her teaching and engagement techniques, professional development, community service, and unique College contributions.

This month’s spotlight is Mark Creegan, Assistant Professor of Drawing and Design at Kent Campus.

Engaging with and supporting students:

Mark developed a collaborative effort that connects his drawing and design students with teen residents of local Gateway substance abuse rehab centers. The project entailed design students creating visual “zines” that illustrate various poetry written by the rehab residents. The drawing students work with the teen residents to create large murals that incorporate the teen’s poetry with the student’s drawing.

Professor Creegan’s students were able to read the clients’ writings and were exposed to their ideas, hopes, and struggles. The work with the drawing students allowed the teen clients to express themselves in artistic ways that aided their recovery.

Reimagining classroom assignments:

Mark designs class activities that facilitate students’ discovery of relevant applications for the artistic skills they are learning in class. He tries to instill students with an appreciation for visual art as a method of communication.  Students are encouraged to use visual art to convey their own ideas while working to improve their artistic skills and abilities. 

Engaging with the College:

Annual participant in Professor Colavito’s “What Is Love” symposium at Kent Campus. His drawing class participated in the event, making large “heart” drawings for display. 

Engaging with the community:

• Received HandsOn Jacksonville’s Art of Caring award and President’s Volunteer Service award
• Worked with local nonprofit group Hope at Hand to bring art and poetry programming to underserved populations

Student “Zine” example