Harrisburg University faculty and students leveraged VR skills learned in the classroom while participating in a recent event commemorating Juneteenth that showcased the “future” of black arts within Virtual Reality (VR) environments.
With the collaborative efforts of HU’s faculty and talented students, the Young Professionals of Color (YPOC), and the Susquehanna Art Museum, the team created a showcase that combines the power of art, technology, and history to commemorate this important holiday.
During this two-hour event, participants explored three remarkable VR environments, each meticulously crafted to provide a profound experience:
Underground Railroad Museum. Attendees embarked on a virtual journey through the Underground Railroad, witnessed the courage of those who fought for freedom and gained a deeper understanding of this pivotal era in history.
George Washington Carver’s Workshop: Stepped into the virtual realm of George Washington Carver, an inspiring scientist and inventor, discovered his groundbreaking contributions to agricultural science.
Edmund Pettus Bridge: Experienced the historical significance of Edmund Pettus Bridge, a symbol of the civil rights movement, and reflected on the progress achieved while acknowledging the work still ahead.
The Harrisburg University team that played a role: Dr. Sa Liu: HU Interactive Media Faculty and XR Taskforce Member; Sabrina Wilder: HU Student, Macroinvertebrate Extraordinaire, and in-person VR Intern; Dr. Mike Meyer: HU Environmental Science Faculty and XR Taskforce Chair; and Ryan Bosley: HU Student, VR Wizard, and the in-VR assistant
“Their expertise, passion, and dedication have shaped this celebration into an unforgettable experience for all attendees,” says Liu.
The efforts of the faculty and students further highlight the University’s commitment to community engagement, providing students with opportunities to join groups in the region. Additionally, it serves as another example of how Harrisburg University connects students’ education to projects beyond the campus.
HU’s showcases were among 15 at the event. For more information on the event, please visit the Young Professionals of Color website at https://ypoc-hbg.org/%23juneteenthhbg.
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Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Harrisburg University is a private nonprofit university offering bachelor and graduate degree programs in science, technology, and math fields. For more information on the University’s affordable demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, call 717-901-5146 or email, Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Follow on Twitter (@HarrisburgU) and Facebook (Facebook.com/HarrisburgU.
