UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Center for Pedagogy in Arts and Design will host Mark Stephens, associate dean for medical education, University Park curriculum, Penn State College of Medicine, for “Unmasked,” a Halloween mask-painting workshop, on Friday, Oct. 31, 1:30–3 p.m. in 113 Borland.
Stephens, a pioneer for mask-making in medical education, will lead the workshop using creative expression to explore identity and reflection. He has adapted practices he encountered with art therapist Melissa Walker at Walter Reed’s National Intrepid Center of Excellence. Stephens has published on how mask-making can be a tool for professional identity formation, as well as its influence on impostor-ism in medical trainees. He has delivered talks and workshops across Penn State to share his studies, which show that mask-making is a simple, reflective exercise that helps participants surface personal and professional stories.
The event is open to the entire Penn State community. Attendees will receive a blank mask, be given time to reflect, and paint a personal design. No experience is needed, and all materials will be provided.