Laura Overton, of Sedgwick, 'paving the way' as one of Clark University's inaugural LEEP Project Pioneers

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Laura Overton is a LEEP Project Pioneer at Clark University

WORCESTER, MA (01/14/2013)(readMedia)-- Laura S. Overton, of Sedgwick, is one of 46 Clark University students selected to serve as a LEEP Project Pioneer-the first class of students conducting projects under LEEP (Liberal Education and Effective Practice), Clark's model of education that combines a robust liberal arts curriculum with life-changing world and workplace experiences.

The LEEP Pioneers have been working closely with faculty mentors as well as Clark alumni and organizational partners on projects of shared interest or leading-edge research and analysis. The projects, some of which started this summer, and others which will commence during the 2012-2013 academic year, allow the students to creatively address actual problems and apply their knowledge in authentic workplace settings before they graduate. The LEEP Projects span the full breadth of academic studies, from arts/humanities to natural and social sciences.

Overton is researching the relationship between socio-economic status, early age sexual abuse and sex work in Worcester. She is working with Pathways for Change to create an education and awareness program surrounding the issue of prostitution in the City.

"Clark's LEEP Project Pioneers initiative is the inaugural run for an exciting new feature of our undergraduate curriculum. LEEP Projects provide opportunities for students to blend academic learning with professional development," said Colin Polsky, associate dean for undergraduate research and active pedagogy and associate professor of geography. "LEEP Projects not only allow Clark students to dive deep into a topic about which they are passionate, but also require students to learn how to communicate about the topic to multiple and diverse audiences."

Overton received her bachelor's degree in International Development and Social Change in May. She is currently pursuing her master's degree tuition- free through Clark's Accelerated B.A./Master's Degree Program. In the spring of 2012, she and five other students were awarded $2,500 through the U-Reka Big Idea Contest for their idea, "The Local Root," a cooperatively-run student venture that offers healthy, sustainable, accessible, and affordable food options to the Clark community. She has also played on the Clark University Women's Soccer team.

Overton is a 2008 graduate of George Stevens Acedemy in Blue Hill. She is the daughter of Michael and Margaret Overton.

Founded in 1887 in Worcester, Massachusetts, Clark University is a small, liberal arts-based research university addressing social and human imperatives on a global scale. Clark's faculty and students work across boundaries to develop solutions to contemporary challenges in the areas of psychology, geography, management, urban education, Holocaust and genocide studies, environmental studies, and international development and social change. The Clark educational experience embodies the University's motto: Challenge convention. Change our world. www.clarku.edu