September 16, 2026

SVSU opens hub for community engagement

Center to feature artwork by alumnus

To facilitate its priority of expanding and strengthening partnerships between the university and the community, Saginaw Valley State University has established the new Center for Community Engagement and Experiential Learning (CCEEL). The public is invited to learn more about this hub for “town-and-gown” collaboration at a grand opening celebration on Wednesday, Sept. 23. The event runs from 5-7 p.m. in Gilbertson Hall North 103 and will include self-tours of the space, breakout sessions about CCEEL initiatives and the unveiling of an original mural created by two-time SVSU graduate David Young. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is not required.

Young, an artist and visual art teacher, was selected to create the CCEEL mural following a call for artists in July. He receives an award of $1,000 to cover his time and materials.

The mural will be unveiled during the CCEEL’s grand opening on Wednesday, Sept. 23. The public is invited to the grand opening, which begins at 5 p.m. in Gilbertson Hall GN103. Registration is not required. More information can be found on the CCEEL’s website.

Young is an acrylic artist, muralist and art educator in Detroit. He blends a variety of styles — contemporary, abstract, portraiture and urban-inspired imagery — to create bold works. He earned both a Bachelor of Arts in visual arts education and a Master of Arts in Teaching from SVSU. “I am

humbled to be given the chance to represent my art and creativity for my alma mater,” Young said. “I want to represent the people that make up this community. I want to represent the Center for Community Engagement, and I want viewers to see themselves in this project.”

Candidates for the commission were asked to propose a design that represents the CCEEL’s mission to develop and nurture community partnerships that positively impact the quality of life throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region.

“We are excited to highlight the work of one of our alum,” said Dawn Hinton, associate provost at SVSU. “In this project we wanted the artwork to reflect what the Center for Community Engagement and Experiential Learning is about, bringing people together and creating meaningful connections between SVSU and the Great Lakes Bay Region that we serve.

“David’s vision captures that spirit while also giving students and community members an opportunity to see themselves represented in this space. It is especially meaningful to have an SVSU alumnus create a piece that will become part of the Center and help tell the story of our connection to the region.”

Through the Center for Community Engagement and Experiential Learning, SVSU seeks to establish and strengthen meaningful partnerships with the community. The Center’s purpose is to advance mutually beneficial community engagement, experiential learning and collaborative partnerships that transform student learning, strengthen communities and elevate SVSU’s regional leadership.