AT THE ALLEN / SPRING 2025 / 19 HIGHLIGHT / OUTREACH FOSTERING COMMUNITY THROUGH ART: THE ALLEN’S GROWING NETWORK OF COLLABORATION The Allen is expanding its outreach to partner withmore local organizations— like Oberlin Kids—that connect the museum to a collaborative network across the community. Since the creation of the new position of Coordinator of Student and Community Connection as part of the museum’s strategic plan, Alyssa Traster has helped organize events and initiatives to educate, connect, and give back to those in and around Oberlin. CommunityDay The Allen’s most recent Community Day had the highest attendance yet thanks to these new partnerships. During this event, guests of all ages enjoyed 3D printing with the college’s Micro Makerspace, and contributed to a community art project with the Oberlin Public Library. Non-perishable goods were collected for Oberlin Community Services at the door. SymposiumFellowshipDinner The Body, the Host: HIV/AIDS and Christianity exhibition offered a unique opportunity to connect with LGBTQ+ and Christian organizations across the community and college. At the beginning of the exhibition, the museum invited local faith leaders to tour and share their insights. Pastor David Hill fromFirst Church, Father Andy McQuery of Christ Episcopal Church, andmembers of the college’s Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (ORSL) engaged in meaningful discussions with curator SamAdams and Alyssa Traster. The recent symposium on HIV/AIDS and Christianity kicked off with a fellowship dinner at First Church to celebrate keynote speaker Dee Dee Ngozi Chamblee. Attendees included community congregants and students and staff from the Allen, ORSL, and the college’s Office of Gender and Attraction Initiatives (GAI). These partnerships continue to grow and offer new opportunities for connecting. School Supplies Drive In collaboration with UnitedWay of Lorain County, the Allen organized a school supply donation drive for K-12 students across Lorain County. “ We’re listening and responding to the needs of Oberlin and greater Lorain County. TheAllen wants to provide for the broadest community possible.” — Alyssa Traster, Coordinator of Student and Community Connection Alyssa Traster talks about the newly-conserved bronze dragon at Community Day with museumguests. Symposium speakers, students, and community members enjoy a fellowship dinner at First Church. ISABELLA MOSS
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