About the Rosa Parks Memorial Project at Mesa College
The Rosa Parks Memorial Project honors the legacy and teachings of civil rights activist Rosa Parks who visited Mesa College several times in the early 1990s. “Mrs. Parks was not only an iconic figure of the Civil Rights Movement, she was a warm and caring presence to many people,” said Dr. Constance M. Carroll, who served as president of Mesa College during Mrs. Parks’ visits. “Our students and faculty looked forward to her visits to Mesa College, and all of us were overwhelmed by her combination of humility and courage.”
The Rosa Parks Memorial Project is designed to celebrate the legacy and attributes of the civil rights activist and especially the “Quiet Strength” that all people have within them to take a stand against repression and injustice. The unique design of the project incorporates a transit stop and an adjacent reflection area. The bus shelter will feature panels displaying the history and images of Rosa Parks. Photographic transparencies of actual Mesa College students laminated in between safety glass will be displayed above the benches. The reflection area will feature Terra Cotta colored cast concrete curved walls, seating and a rose vessel.
About the Public Art Team
Dr. Gerda Govine-Ituarte, Ed.D.is C.E.O. of Govine Consulting specializing in human resources/diversity/organizational development, labor, and workplace issues.
Nina Karavasiles, Public Artist is currently working on commissions for the Colfax Bridge in Studio City, Los Angeles. She recently completed an African-American Legacy Project for Lillian Place in San Diego as well as the 70th Street Trolley Station.
Prof. Mario Lara, Public Artist is currently a member of the Department of Fine Arts faculty at Mesa College. Professor Lara’s most recent public art project is the trolley station at 25th and Commercial Trolley Station, San Diego. www.mariolara.us
Construction of the project will commence in spring, 2009. The transit stop will be unveiled and dedicated in fall 2009. A commemoration of the 54th anniversary of Rosa Park’s act of civil disobedience will be held on December 1, 2009. The campus will conduct academic learning experiences focusing on the attributes and legacy of Mrs. Parks, including: quiet strength; identity and empowerment; diversity and inclusion; civic engagement; leadership/mentorship and service throughout the fall semester. The public will be invited to attend.