Students in On Track Academy's Material Science Glass Club hosted more than 50 healthcare leaders last week as part of Providence’s Mission Leadership Academy.
The group of Providence professionals visited the school for a sensory session focused on sight with the theme of vulnerability. Instead of leading, the directors and caregivers were guided by the expertise of On Track students as they practiced the art of fused glass.
Working under the direction of teacher Erin Siemers and other OTA staff, they chose, shaped, and arranged colorful pieces of glass into designs that would be fired to create finished artwork. The process required patience, creativity, and a willingness to ask for help.
“The way we’re sharing this with our participants is that vulnerability shows up because they themselves will become vulnerable,” said Justin Yung Hurtubise, chief mission officer for Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children’s Hospital. “They will no longer be experts in their field, but rather novices and need to rely on the expertise of students to guide them.”
Throughout the session, students helped participants understand the materials, offered creative advice, and demonstrated tools and techniques needed for the work. Fresh glass art and lots of meaningful conversations ensued.
“The students' skill and artistic ability was humbling and inspiring to me,” shared Kelly Corcoran, chief mission officer for Providence Stevens County. “The deeply touching experience was engaging with the students who shared from not just their heads, but with their hearts.”
This workshop was possible thanks to a grant from the Spokane Public Schools Foundation, which funded the purchase of the club’s glass kiln.
