Cranston's Holt a College Pioneer at Clark University

Shaun B. Holt, of Cranston, Rhode Island, is one of 46 Clark University students selected to serve as a LEEP Project Pioneer—the first class of students conducting projects under LEEP (Liberal Education and Effective Practice), Clark’s model of education that combines a robust liberal arts curriculum with life-changing world and workplace experiences.

The LEEP Pioneers have been working closely with faculty mentors as well as Clark alumni and organizational partners on projects of shared interest or leading-edge research and analysis.  The projects, some of which started this summer, and others which will commence during the 2012-2013 academic year, allow the students to creatively address actual problems and apply their knowledge in authentic workplace settings before they graduate.  The LEEP Projects span the full breadth of academic studies, from arts/humanities to natural and social sciences.

Holt worked in the sustainability department at EMC Corporation where he took the initiative to learn new technologies and techniques, and created a video to educate EMC employees about sustainability issues. 

Holt gave a speech about his LEEP project and won third-place in the 2012 Hervey Ross Oratorical Contest.  A video of his speech is available at http://clarkvoices.clarku.edu/2012/11/01/leep-pioneer-shaun-holt/.  Holt also kept a blog while he worked on his project.  To access his entries, visit http://leep.clarku.edu/projects/category/humanities/shaun-holt/.

“Clark’s LEEP Project Pioneers initiative is the inaugural run for an exciting new feature of our undergraduate curriculum. LEEP Projects provide opportunities for students to blend academic learning with professional development,” said Colin Polsky, associate dean for undergraduate research and active pedagogy and associate professor of geography.  “LEEP Projects not only allow Clark students to dive deep into a topic about which they are passionate, but also require students to learn how to communicate about the topic to multiple and diverse audiences.” 

Holt is a member of the Class of 2013 at Clark University.  He majors in communication and culture.  On campus, he is involved with the E-board of Radio of Clark University (ROCU), and plays intramural soccer, basketball and softball. 

Shaun is the son of Jim and Lynn Holt of Cranston.  He is a 2009 graduate of Cranston High School East.