With Valentine’s Day coming soon, Austin College presents The Concept Store, an exhibit of Valentine gifts with a cunning twist, in Wright Campus Center’s Johnson Gallery on February 12 through February 14, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; additional hours on February 12 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
“This immersive exhibit uses typical Valentine’s Day gifts that bring to light the unhealthy behaviors commonly seen in relationship and friendship,” said Liz Washington, project coordinator for Austin College ’RoosReact program. “These items will make you think twice about the behavior you see and exhibit. By elevating the issue of healthy versus unhealthy behaviors, we can start the conversation. We encourage everyone to visit this fun project to learn how to love better.”
This is the second year for The Concept Store and it includes new and interesting items including limited chocolates that “taste” the way relationships “feel.” Washington, along with the Peer Wellness Educators, Mentors in Violence Prevention, and Title IX director Melanie Oelfke and assistant director Jake Sapp will be available at the store to provide resource information available on and off campus. Counseling Services are always available at no charge to students in the Adams Center.
The project is based off a concept from One Love Foundation, a nonprofit organization established to stop relationship abuse. See more information about One Love.
Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, international study, pre-professional foundations, leadership development, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. The residential student body of approximately 1,300 students and more than 100 expert faculty members allow a 13:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. Austin College is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA) and cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. Founded in 1849, the College is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.