Social Sciences students present creative solutions to societal challenges
From left to right: Richard Piekarczyk-Vacca, Tim Daly, and Clare Richardson and Jill Rogers
On April 27 undergraduate Social Sciences students presented bright ideas and creative solutions to societal challenges in a poster showcase as part of the Clarke Prizes in Advocacy competition.
Established in 2014 by McMaster alumnus Ryan Clarke (class of ’88) and his wife Leanne, the Prizes in Advocacy encourages students to explore topics such as poverty alleviation, housing, policy change, women’s issues, student fees, indigenous issues, access to education, environment, and more.
“I’m amazed at the projects and ideas coming from students,” said Clarke in an address to the student participants.
“Advocacy is important and I’m thankful to the students who have presented their ideas and urge them to continue advocating for change.”
Three projects are awarded financial prizes. The selected recipients also receive professional feedback from Ryan Clarke of Advocacy Solutions about their campaign.
Additionally, recipients are given one-on-one support from the Office of Experiential Education (EE) about how to incorporate this experience and prize effectively into their resume and LinkedIn profile.
1st Prize, $3,000: Clare Richardson and Jill Rogers, Indigenous Studies
Grand River Mohawk at McMaster Children’s Picture Dictionary Initiative – Richardson and Rogers are advocating for and assisting with the development of an interactive picture dictionary which will help children learn the Grand River dialect of the Mohawk language. This will allow for the preservation of this Indigenous language.
2nd Prize, $2,000: Tim Daly, Political Science
“Art Ya Glad You Painted” Hospital Beautification Project – This project will bring together child patients at McMaster Children’s Hospital, students and established artists, businesses and other community members to create colourful murals for the inside and outside of the building.
3rd Prize, $1,000: Richard Piekarczyk-Vacca, Social Psychology
Academic Initiative for Active, Releasing and Released Armed Forces Members – Navigating post-secondary education can be a challenge for members of the Canadian armed forces. This project works to provide assistance and support to those members of the forces who wish to pursue their education after release.
