For the fourth year, Rachel DeSoto-Jackson, associate professor of Applied Theatre, was invited to present a national master class workshop at the Smithsonian Latino Center. While this workshop had been presented in person in previous years, this year's workshop engaged participants virtually via Zoom.
The workshop, titled “The Secrets of Non-Verbal Communication,” was presented during the 2020 Young Ambassador Program to 32 Latinx young professionals from across the US. The interactive workshop focused on the application of community-building and empathetic communication skills across a wide range of fields through the use of theatrical exercises. Participants applied these skills in a unique Forum Theatre simulation scene during which they engaged in live problem-solving for more effective interpersonal communication in a work setting.
The Young Ambassadors Program at the Smithsonian Latino Center works to create a community of emerging Latinx leaders and life-long learners by providing opportunities for academic and professional enhancement and fostering exposure and access to various professionals and their fields via the Smithsonian Institution and its resources.