“It was in Flex where I really learned to write persuasively about expansive ideas and the integration of cultural ideas across a diversity of peoples. This has been a valuable ‘tool” in my architect’s tool kit and has enabled me to work collaboratively with stakeholders and other design professionals.”
– William Hartman, Class of 1976
“I truly do not believe I would be the person I am today without the education I received in Flex. It influenced what I studied, the profession I chose, and gave me a multi-cultural/political understanding that continues to influence my world view today.”
– Sara Frost, Class of 1979
“The Flex program at Seaholm prepared me for any, and every, type of learning model that came my way as I progressed into adulthood. I left Birmingham with a mind that was completely open to the world of education on levels I never thought possible. It wasn’t until I looked back that I realized how phenomenal my education was.”
– Lisa Archer, Class of 1984
“I find Flex popping up when I least expect it–conversations, lectures, meeting new people. It has given me a worldly perspective and left me with lessons, connections and ideas that I built upon throughout my undergraduate and graduate experience, both academically and personally. The fact that we are so diverse and still remain committed to the program and the community after so many years should reveal a lot about what a rewarding program this is. ”
– Alyssa Rosenzweig, Class of 2005
“The pedagogical strategy of Flex is shared by the universities of social justice movements all around the world including the Landless Peasants Movement of Brazil, the Unemployed Workers Union of Argentina, international movement Via Campasina, and historically in such famous institutions as the Highlander school, whom had such monumental graduates and Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and Ella Baker. Flex has connected me to history of social consciousness, and the contemporary and extremely important issue of globalization, and by doing so shown the unbreakable tie between thought and action.”
– Max Smith, Class of 2008
“Flex opened my eyes to the relationship between academics, political issues, activism, and possibility for change. As a freshmen in high school I was exposed to ways of thinking that are beyond most people even at the college level. In college you never get the chance to thoroughly mix different subject areas and come up with an overarching theme to your studies the way you do in Flex. It’s mix of history, philosophy, and practical application is a dynamic and enlightening combination that allows students to relate often overwhelming material to themselves, their interests, and their communities and thereby make some sense of it all. It allows you to think about where problems arise in our society and ways you might be able to help. It is an invaluable program, breeding awareness and hope through its well-thought through curriculum and amazing teachers.”
– Xan Schwartz, Class of 2009