MMC Service Learning Program Inspires Alumna to Build on Class Experience, Help Nonprofit

(L-R) MMC Assistant Professor of Communication Arts Anthony Naaeke, Ph.D.; Kristen Pesature ‘09; Audrey B. Tannen, executive director of Eviction Intervention Services; Cindy Mercer, Ph.D., executive director for academic achievement at MMC; Ellen FitzGerald, president of the Board of Directors at Eviction Intervention Services.

“[Through service learning], students have practical, hands-on experience of how theory translates into practice,” said Assistant Professor of Communication Arts Anthony Naaeke, Ph.D. “Students are empowered to see the relevance of their education in the job market and to community service.” 

In Naaeke’s Spring 2009 Persuasion and Advocacy class, students learned about procedures and practices of Eviction Intervention Services (EIS), a nonprofit dedicated to homelessness prevention, tenant advocacy and affordable housing preservation. EIS provides landlord mediation services, free legal counsel, education on NYC housing law and other programs to prevent people from losing their homes. 

Inspired by Naaeke’s class, Kristen Pesature ’09 took her service efforts one step further. Pesature, a theatre arts alumna, designed and painted a 30-by-40-inch work for the EIS office, located at 1233 Second Avenue on the Upper East Side. Her art was unveiled at a public reception at EIS on January 12. 

“It is extremely important to have a Service Learning class integrated within the curriculum,” Pesature said. “This class grants exposure to a volunteer experience that students may not come across otherwise.” 

Eviction Intervention Services displays the artwork of theatre arts alumna and Service Learning Program participant Kristen Pesature ’09 in its office.

“Kristen shared an in-service learning experience with us at EIS, and contacted me about creating a painting for our offices,” said Executive Director Audrey B. Tannen. “Not only does her generosity of spirit pick up our offices, but also her positive, hopeful and beautiful creative expression provides a pick-me-up to our staff and clients. Through her artwork, 

Kristen truly captured the essence of EIS.” Pestaure’s work depicts a field of dandelions in their final, white “seed” stage towering over ones in their yellow “flower” stage. The shorter dandelions depict clients when they come to EIS in need, while the taller ones represent their new selves, improved through their association with the organization. 

Through the Service Learning Program, Pesature experienced firsthand the daily operations of a nonprofit organization. She observed initial meetings between EIS representatives and those in need of assistance, gaining an appreciation for their struggles. Pesature also performed administrative tasks and accompanied staff members on housing visits to address problems with clients’ apartments. 

Assistant Professor of Communication Arts Rebecca Mushtare, M.F.A., another proponent of service learning, has also worked with EIS. In her Digital Media I class, students applied their knowledge by creating a Web site to assist EIS in reaching broader audiences. 

“Our partnership with Eviction Intervention Services has been inspiring for both faculty and students alike, and will continue to be fruitful,” Mushtare said. 

Marymount Manhattan College is an urban, independent, liberal arts college. The mission of the College is to educate a socially and economically diverse student body by fostering intellectual achievement and personal growth and by providing opportunities for career development.

Published: January 14, 2010