Unlocking Artistic Potential: UToledo Senior Empowers Toledo Excel Students

In a remarkable display of mentorship and artistic collaboration, a University of Toledo senior majoring in visual arts, Lydia Myrick, recently shared her talents with a group of rising high school sophomores from the Toledo Excel program. This special art immersion project, part of the program's Careers and Leadership Institute, provided a unique opportunity for these young scholars to explore their creative passions and gain valuable insights from a fellow Excel alumna.

Empowering the Next Generation of Scholars and Artists

Bridging the Gap: Lydia Myrick's Homecoming

Lydia Myrick's journey with the Toledo Excel program has come full circle. As a former participant, she now had the chance to inspire and guide the next generation of scholars. "It was a surreal experience; everything has come full circle as I can remember my first day in Excel sitting in the classrooms," Myrick reflected. "Now to think I'm on the other side of the desk and delivering instruction. I'm grateful for the opportunity."

Cultivating Creativity: The Art Project

The art project, led by Myrick, was designed to expose the Toledo Excel students to the diverse world of visual arts. The students, hailing from various high schools across the city, were given the opportunity to unleash their creativity on three large canvases. Under Myrick's guidance, they explored different mediums and techniques, transforming the blank surfaces into vibrant works of art.

Fostering Well-Rounded Scholars

The Toledo Excel program, which has been creating a pipeline of academically gifted high school students into the University of Toledo for nearly 40 years, recognizes the importance of a well-rounded education. The Careers and Leadership Institute aims to expose these students to a wide range of career paths, from business and STEM to the arts. The art project with Lydia Myrick was a perfect embodiment of this mission.

Celebrating the Finished Product

The three large canvases created by the Toledo Excel students during the art project will now hang in the program's offices, serving as a testament to the students' creativity and the impact of Myrick's mentorship. "I was excited to see what these brilliant students would come up with, and I love the finished product," said David Young, the director of the Toledo Excel program. "One of our purposes with the program is to create strong scholars, and we believe that means a student that is well-rounded. This art project with an incredible alumna like Lydia is a perfect way to do that."

Fostering Artistic Exploration and Personal Growth

The art project not only allowed the Toledo Excel students to explore their artistic talents but also provided them with a unique opportunity for personal growth. By working closely with Lydia Myrick, a fellow student who has walked the same path, the participants gained valuable insights and inspiration. This mentorship experience not only nurtured their creative abilities but also instilled a sense of confidence and empowerment, preparing them for their future academic and professional pursuits.

Cultivating a Diverse and Inclusive Arts Community

The collaboration between Lydia Myrick and the Toledo Excel students represents a broader effort to foster a diverse and inclusive arts community. By providing these young scholars with access to artistic resources and mentorship, the program aims to break down barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented groups to thrive in the visual arts. This initiative not only benefits the individual participants but also contributes to the enrichment of the local arts scene, ensuring that diverse perspectives and talents are celebrated and nurtured.