#UNSEEN: Camp, Class and Conferences in the time of COVID
While we are experiencing the intersections of climate change, racial equity and less we not forget a global pandemic, one thing remains constant, learning does not stop. We are all pivoting to new ways of engaging, communicating and sharing knowledge. This past month we had a chance to share some of our learnings during this time of COVID. For us, this has been a bright spot for creativity and resiliency.
Camp SEE Architecture
As a Metro CERT grant recipient, we were part of the digital stage at their annual event themed Community Resiliency. Featured keynote Shanelle Montana, owner of Du Nord Craft Spirits talked about their response to this summer’s social unrest by opening their warehouse to distribute food and supplies and starting a foundation to help impacted business. Lake Street Council also shared their We Love Lake Street initiative to rebuild small businesses and community organizations. We had an opportunity to share about our Camp SEE, which we offered via drop-off “energy kits”. Our scholars did such an amazing job in learning about climate change, creating sustainable action campaigns and building solar playhouses. Kristel Porter of MN Renewable Now, another seed grant recipient, highlighted her work in installing solar panels to North Minneapolis residents. It was an inspiring event to see how our Twin Cities businesses and organizations are working together to restore hope and build community.
Class: ARCH 5103 Professional Practice
It cannot be overstated that students are doing an amazing time of adapting to online education. Alicia had an opportunity to guest lecture at Dunwoody College on the process of design. Gaging an audience’s engagement through a screen is tricky, but students responded with great questions and insights. We certainly have missed in person activities and events like these and particularly with our campers this summer. The human interaction is truly an essential part of the equation in successfully delivering an academic experience. We have much empathy and thanks to our front-line teachers for finding creative ways to make learning fun, engaging and relevant.
AIA MN Conference
Continuing education is required for all architects, which makes this annual conference for architects a must attend. Shifting to 3 days spread out over 3 weeks format, allowed attendees space to recoup from zoom fatigue. We co-presented a workshop called “The Ethics of Environmental Justice: Architect’s Call To Action” with another locally women-owned firm Precipitate. We both discussed our climate change advocacy platforms for environmental stewardship and racial equity within our profession. We enjoyed co-creating and sharing best practices amongst our team as well as with those in attendance.
What we know for sure is that the learing you share you keep, but the learning that you do not share with others you lose. It is a mind shift where the cultural norm is usually “me” and how I can win instead of “us” winning together. New connections and opportunities to work alongside others who share our passion for equity and environmental sustainability in the world is a gift that keeps on giving toward the greater good. That’s a space where we can all learn to see each other and grow together.
