Changing lives through clay

Another one of the keynote speakers that we're very much looking forward to hearing at the Emergent Learning conference this month is Bill Strickland. 

Bill was born in 1947 and grew up in Manchester, an inner-city neighbourhood of Pittsburgh. During Bill’s high school years he struggled to stay focused on school, but a serendipitous meeting with a teacher inspired him to choose a new path: from his education at the potter’s wheel in Frank Ross’s studio grew his vision for a craft’s guild for students like himself. 

His vision grew wings because he had a teacher who believed in his potential and served as his guide. From high school, to university, to the creation of a Manchester Craft’s Guild (MCG) and then the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, Bill’s vision of an education nurtured by beauty and nature came to life.

We invite you to be a part of Bill's presentation - either by attending the two day conference this April 23-24 in Halifax, or through the purchase of a ticket to Bill's presentation.  You can purchase either online at www.teachingthewaychildrenlearn.com.

In 2011, Bill Strickland was presented with the Goi Peace Award.  Here is his acceptance speech.  We hope to see you in the audience for Bill's presentation!

The Bridgeway team

Bill Strickland - hope and possibility

Bill Strickland believes in hope and possibility.  He believes that the impossible can be made possible.  Officially, he is a "nationally recognized as a visionary leader who authentically delivers educational and cultural opportunities to students and adults within an organizational culture that fosters innovation, creativity, responsibility and integrity."  He has created an arts, education and job-training program in Pittsburg, which he hopes to replicate around the world.

Bill Strickland will bring his vision to Halifax this spring as one of the keynote speakers at Emergent Learning: Turning Tides in 21st Century Education.  Before he gets here, we'll explore his ideas, his books and his success stories on our blog.  Here's a terrific introduction as Bill speaks about his story and the story of Manchester Bidwell Corporation.  Enjoy!

Rhonda