Page 12 - Laker Connection Spring 2013

DREAMS MADE REAL
THROUGH EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
By John Shiffert
Clayton State University recently previewed its future, and reviewed its past, on the stage at Spivey Hall. In a world-class venue where generations of Clayton State students have had their dreams made real in the most engaged, dynamic way possible, through their own performances, it was only fitting that President Dr. Thomas J. Hynes, along with Clayton State students, alumni and faculty, expressed the University’s identity, as epitomized by the statement... Dreams. Made Real.
Above: Student Christina Gardner shares how Clayton State has made her dreams real. Gardner was one of several students, alumni and faculty members to speak at the event. Above Right: Hynes calls “Dreams. Made Real.” Clayton State’s authentic message.
As Hynes puts it, “this is our authentic message; Clayton State is a place where dreams are made real.”
In looking back and looking ahead, faculty and students told how Clayton State has been, and will be, identified by the concept of dreams made real. It is the essence of the University, something Clayton State has done for many years. And while there are many ways that dreams are made real at Clayton State, perhaps none illustrate the University better than the experiential learning opportunities af- forded the students.
That’s because education at Clayton State is more than informing students, it’s about engaging students in a dynamic learning experience and preparation outside the classroom that challenges them to develop a depth of understanding, both inside and outside their fields of study.
10 THE LAKER CONNECTION