Two art students surprise with award at special assembly

Lawrence-Nelson high school gym bleachers were filled with students for an unscheduled assembly Monday morning. It was a surprise even to the two girls it was dedicated to. It was their artwork that brought them all together. Art cultivates cultural beliefs and behaviors impacting societal norms. Who knew an art contest would have such an influence? An art contest request went out to 15 high school art teachers in nine counties. The title of the contest was "Shine Your Light," and it needed to be child-friendly. Entrants had one month to submit their illustrations. Two winners from the contest would be selected to paint their artwork as a mural on the inside of a designated building in Grand Island.

First Light Child Advocacy Center moved to their new location and wanted to have a mural painted in the entry way of their facility as a special greeting when guests arrive.

Out of 12 submissions the design chosen was completed by Tiffany Gonzalez-Gamez and Riley Haba from Lawrence-Nelson High School. Once they were called to the front, Tiffany and Riley had an epiphany that the assembly was about them.

First Light's team gave the accolades and presented Tiffany and Riley with a check for $200 ($100 each) in front of the whole school. Those present from First Light were: Leah Smillie, executive director, Robert Pavelka, board member, Jacey Klassen, advocate, Jullissa Rivera, MDT coordinator and Destiny Williams, forensic interviewer. Also, present was Kylee Haba, L-N art teacher who was beaming with smiles. In the stands, peers clapped and cheered.

All participants were given gift cards for Dairy Queen and Taco John's. The effects of what Tiffany and Riley accomplished is far-reaching. Tiffany and Riley have used their artistic talent to serve a community. First Light provides a comfortable environment where children who have encountered traumatic events from abuse or as witnesses to a crime can express their experiences and receive the assistance needed for recovery. The agency is a "multi-disciplinary team working with children and families through difficult times," said Smillie. Each child is interviewed at the facility by those who are trauma informed, knowledgeable in child development and how children communicate. Advocates are assigned to assist families as long as they need. First Light also engages with law enforcement, lawyers and courts as needed. Providing an atmosphere of care and safety is First Light's utmost priority. Tiffany and Riley were able to capture the essence of First Light's vision and mission in their colorful composition. Five staff members from First Light selected Tiffany and Riley's artwork. It was one that "expresses a calming feeling inside," said Smillie. In the near future Tiffany and Riley will have an all expense paid trip to the Grand Island office to paint their artistic creation. It is hoped that for the community now, and perhaps for generations to come, the mural will inspire and nurture peaceful thoughts, feelings and healing. It's a connection of values through a creative medium.