MCLA Trailblaizers Podcast
Research Focus
The MCLA Trailblazers Podcast aims to explore and amplify the complexities of hidden student communities within higher education, particularly focusing on underrepresented identities. By moving beyond surface-level representations, the project seeks to create a more nuanced understanding of student experiences and identities through individualized photo shoots, podcast interviews, and collaborative showcases.
Research Group
J.C. Innocent
A Haitian-American visual artist born in Port au Prince, Haiti and raised Boston, Massachusetts who creates artworks through multiple mediums under the pseudonym INSOMNIA. As a visual artist, he utilizes symbolism through body language, facial expressions, clothing, jewelry, and tattoos to tackle themes and issues concerning identity, race, feminism, economics, political themes, and mental health.
Guhan Nandakumar
A double major in Education and English with a concentration in Writing. He is a science fiction and fantasy writer, working under the pen name G.R. Nanda. His work can be found at www.grnanda.com
Jaden Nesmith
Born in New York City April 2004. Raised in Bronx, NY he began refining his acting skills in elementary school participating in choreography for Marshal academy then transferring his skills to live slam poetry/rap . He cemented his acting skills attending MCLA’s theatre program. Developing and honing acting techniques while working with the Men of Color initiative to promote health and gym programs that help him prepare for athletic aspects of theatre
J.C. Innocent, Guhan Nandakumar, Jaden Nesmith
Research
Research Questions:
How do underrepresented students perceive their identities within the campus community?
In what ways can individualized representation (through photos and podcasts) empower students and foster community cohesion?
How can the voices of these students contribute to broader conversations about inclusivity and representation in higher education?
Hypotheses:
Individualized representation through visual and auditory mediums will enhance students' sense of identity and belonging.
Engaging with diverse narratives will foster a stronger community and promote systemic change within the institution.
The project will reveal previously overlooked aspects of student life, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of campus culture.
Contribution to Existing Knowledge
Voices of MCLA builds on the foundational work of Project: See Me As I Am, which focuses on representation and empowerment for Black and Brown students. It extends this mission by advocating for a broader range of identities and experiences, enriching the discourse around representation in higher education. By introducing an interdisciplinary approach, including a vocal library of student experiences, it provides a resource for future students and faculty, fostering ongoing dialogue about inclusivity and systemic change.
Research Design and Methods
Components:
Project: See Me As I Am
Photoshoots: Individualized photo sessions for underrepresented communities, capturing their unique essence.
Empowerment Focus: The project will create a supportive environment, encouraging students to express their identities.
Voices of MCLA
Podcast Interviews: Conduct in-depth interviews using tailored questions to emphasize the distinctiveness of each student.
Digital Library: The recorded interviews will be compiled into a digital library, serving as a resource for prospective students.
Methodology:
Photos: Utilizing MCLA resources in Bowman 315A (Photography Room) for personalized photo shoots that reflect students’ identities. Participants will receive their photos at no cost.
Interviews: Conducted in Bowman 319 (Podcast Room) using a structured set of questions designed to explore various facets of identity and representation. It evolves Project: SMAIA’s interview section into a digital library that can be shared across MCLA social media. Key questions include:
What is your major/year?
What does representation look like to you?
What is something you would like to see changed on campus?
Guests and Upcoming Topics
Vice Provost Andre Lynch - Men of Color Initiative
Arlene Theodore - Multicultural Education Resource Center
Rachel Lamarre - Theatre Curriculum Restructure
The Black Student Union - Being the Change They Want to See in the MCLA Community
Max Fyfe - QSU/Wearing Many Hats
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Guhan and J.C. on Episode #4
The project will foster collaboration across disciplines by integrating perspectives from various fields, including Fine and Performing Arts, Creative Writing, and Arts Management
This collaboration will enhance the depth of understanding regarding the impact of representation and community cohesion among underrepresented students.
Showcase Spaces
Day of Dialogue
COPLAC Conference
Undergraduate Research Conference
The Multi-Cultural Education Resource Center
GOAL
Voices of MCLA aspires to create a richer narrative around student identities in higher education, highlighting the importance of visibility and voice in fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. By documenting and showcasing these diverse experiences, the project will contribute significantly to ongoing conversations about inclusivity and representation, paving the way for systemic change within academic institutions.
TIMELINE
Budget
Photography Back Drops - $150
Order of Stickers - $100
Ordering Patches - $100
Shirts, Sweaters Custom Ink/Chesire Screen Printing - $250
