St. Mary's College of Maryland

A photography mentorship program, the "Through the Lens" exhibition was launched in recognition of the increasing urgency to address equity issues, and to give voice to underrepresented communities. The exhibition is sponsored by St. Mary's College's division of Inclusive Diversity, Equity, Access and Accountability (IDEAA) and Department of Art and Art History, along with St. Mary's County Arts Council and Community Bank of Chesapeake. This free-to-participate program was a hands-on learning opportunity for underrepresented youths ages 16-18 (grades 10-12), led by St. Mary's College students. Participants reflected on their communities and voiced their concerns through photography, also known as the photovoice method. They learned to master the use of professional photography equipment, had the opportunity to display their works in an exhibition, and a chance to earn two college credits upon the successful completion of the program.