Home is a Journey Symposium

At SMU, we recognize the power of collaboration. By forging connections with artists, educators, and advocates, we yield to the voices of the less fortunate to inform and bridge the gap between the lived experience, art, education, and community impact. Through the “HOME? Humanizing the Homeless: Portraits and Signs” art exhibit and the Home is a Journey March and Symposium, SMU empowers individuals to wield their creativity, scholarship, and action as a tool for change in pursuit of a just society.

Panel One: Convergence of Compassion: Art, Homelessness, and Social Justice.
Panel Two: Educating for Equity: Exploring Higher Education’s Role in Fostering Social Conscience in the Classroom.
Panel Three: Trailblazers for Change: Non-Profit Leaders Working to Eradicate Homelessness and Inspire Social Justice.

Description:
The panel of experts on the intersection of art and social justice is a beacon of hope, casting light on a path forward where creativity and compassion intertwine to shape a more just and equitable world. Each panelist brings a unique blend of artistic prowess and a profound commitment to advocating societal equity. Each expert draws inspiration from interpreting struggles, triumphs, and the timeless beauty of the human experience. Their art mirrors society's complexities, encouraging dialogue and introspection and harmonizing the pursuit of justice and dignity for all.

Moderator: Guadalupe Roman, Human Rights Students
Speakers
1. Willie Baronet, M.A., M.F.A., Professor of Advertising, SMU, creator of We Are All Homeless and Signs of Humanity
2. Rosie Frasso, PhD, SM, SM, CPH, Thomas Jefferson University
3. Eddie Dunn, formerly homeless, advocate, speaker for homelessness
4. Leah den Bok, Photographer and creator of Humanizing the Homeless
Panel Two: Educating for Equity: Exploring Higher Education’s Role in Fostering Social Conscience in the Classroom.
(2:00 – 2:50)

Description:
In today’s rapidly changing world, higher education institutions play a pivotal role in shaping not only the academic knowledge of students but also their social conscience. This panel will examine how universities can effectively instill empathy, ethical responsibility, and civic engagement in their students. Through innovative teaching methods, curricular initiatives, and extracurricular activities, higher education can empower students to become active, socially conscious citizens committed to addressing pressing social challenges.

Moderator: Celine Horner, Simmons graduate student (counseling)
Speakers
1. Laura Robinson-Doyle, PhD, Professor in Applied Physiology and Sport Management, SMU
2. Rick Halperin, PhD, Professor, Director of the Human Rights Program, SMU
3. Maria Dixon-Hall, PhD, Professor of Corporate Communication and Public Affairs, Senior Advisor to the Provost, Chief Diversity Officer, SMU
4. Sheri Kunovich, PhD, Associate Provost for Student Academic Engagement and Success, SMU
5. Student Advocate for Social Justice in the Classroom

Panel Three: Trailblazers for Change: Non-Profit Leaders Working to Eradicate Homelessness and Inspire Social Justice.
(3:00 - 3:50)

Description:
This inspiring and informative panel discussion features visionary non-profit leaders on the frontlines of the battle against homelessness. This engaging panel brings together a diverse group of dedicated experts, each with unique insights and experiences, to explore the multifaceted challenges of homelessness and its broader social justice issues.
*(Description is fluid and can change based on the participants)

Moderator: Koedi Nealy (SMU Student)
Speakers
1. Bill Holston, JD– COO for Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center
2. Joli Angel Robinson – President and CEO: Housing Forward
3. Daniel Roby – CEO of Austin Street Center
4. David Woody, PhD - President and CEO: The Bridge
5. Tamika Perry, CEO of Dallas Hope Charities


Reception (4:00 – 4:30)

Armstrong Commons | View More Events

Contact the organizers