In Boston, students experienced a variety of public art— including sculptures, architecture and this mural in Harvard Square—and pondered its impact on communities (Photo courtesy of Hiba Abu Chabke ’19).
From the busy streets of historic Boston to the grandeur of the wild West, this summer’s newest Brock Experiences courses showed participating students what America is made of and opened their eyes to critical environmental and social issues.
In Boston, students explored how the arts and humanities improve communities and how they can enhance individuals’ understanding of their own roles as active participants in citizenship. Students met with city officials to discuss the role of arts in society; contrasted Trinity Church with the Boston Public Library; and viewed rare art at the Boston Athenaeum.
Students followed the Colorado River through four states, meeting with government officials and farmers along the way to discuss water rights and other issues.
Another group of students explored the path of the Colorado River, considering issues of water access, including ownership of the water and how it should be used. They met with farmers who use the river for irrigation and government officials managing trout and other wildlife along the river, and learned about the importance of the Hoover Dam.
Created by a $5.9 million gift from Joan ’64 and Macon Brock, the Brock Experiences are a growing group of immersive, citizenship-focused courses that explore the important issues of our time at sites throughout the United States, including Yellowstone National Park and Puerto Rico.
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