University of Minnesota Rochester Partner with Rochester Alternative Learning Center for Creativity and Well‑Being Initiative

Students from the University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR) and Rochester Alternative Learning Center have embarked on an innovative, community-centered learning experience designed to foster creativity, connection and well‑being. As part of the Spring ’26 semester course HUM 3402 – Imagination Studio: Exploring Creativity for Well‑Being, twenty UMR students have collaborated with 180 high school students at the Rochester Alternative Learning Center (RALC).

Co‑taught by Yuko Taniguchi and Jim Ford, HUM 3402 explores how creative practices can support mental, emotional and social well-being. The partnership with RALC extends this mission beyond the classroom, offering both UMR and high school students a shared space to create, reflect and engage across communities.

Yuko Taniguchi shared, “Artists are driven by curiosity, which compels them to show up, even in challenging times, to wonder alongside their communities. Our team is delighted to create this unique space where professional artists, college students, high school students and teachers all practice being artists together: wondering, reflecting and finding inspiration from within during these uncertain times.”

During UMR’s spring break, visiting artists will join UMR and RALC students to facilitate hands‑on creative experiences that promote well‑being, self‑expression and connection.

A key highlight of the week will take place on Friday, March 13, where artist Miri Villiard will lead a Community Mural Project. The collaborative mural will aim to honor the students' stories, celebrate resilience and create a shared symbol of growth within the school community.