AmeriCorps left a lasting impact
This month, I attended my (and the) last AmeriCorps Cultural Technology Program graduation ceremony at New Mexico Highlands University. It was a bittersweet occasion — seeing all the contributions my fellow AmeriCorps members put forth for their respective institutions, while knowing the state will no longer support the program.
After graduating from NMHU in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts in Media Arts and Technology, I had no idea what I was going to do. “Step out of your comfort zone,” the then-president of NMHU said during the commencement ceremony. There’s a world of opportunities out there, but I didn’t know which direction to take. I talked to my professors and learned I could get valuable experience in my field as an AmeriCorps member through a unique program created by Media Arts and Technology and the Department of Cultural Affairs.
These past few years have been absolutely amazing. I interned at the New Mexico History Museum in Santa Fe and the Los Alamos Historical Society. I worked on a number of challenging and engaging videos, including two oral history projects (World War II and Cold War), a maker-space interview series and a documentary on the Segesser Hide Paintings. These are valuable tools for research, education and fundraising.
Other members did interesting things like running STEM workshops with libraries all around the state that allowed kids to interact with and learn about technology, 3D printing and robotics. We were also exposed to various forms of volunteerism and broad discussions about learning, engagement, inclusiveness and community outreach.
Our work as AmeriCorps members enriched communities across the state, including rural areas. Since 2010, the AmeriCorps Cultural Technology Program has served 49 libraries and cultural institutions, contributing close to 300 projects aimed at developing technological capacity and connection to community. This is valuable because the cultural sector is such a key part of New Mexico’s identity and economy.
Seventy-six Highlands students and recent graduates have served as AmeriCorps members. They are more than twice as likely to find jobs or attend graduate school as students who did not enter the program. During my service, I learned to navigate various work environments, I was treated as a professional and I received outstanding mentorship. I was also offered numerous opportunities to network with people in my discipline.
If it weren’t for this experience, I wouldn’t be in my first semester of graduate school right now. I wouldn’t have the confidence in my ability to tackle what lies before me, nor would I be the person I am today. I’ve seen the program change the lives of my fellow members as well.
It’s unfortunate the New Mexico Commission for Community Volunteerism this year decided to pull funding from this nationally recognized, successful program. I urge legislators and other leaders to help find a way to keep it going. It’s incredibly beneficial for the young people who serve and for the libraries and cultural institutions, which in turn, serve New Mexico.