Improv for Diversity and Inclusion

Zoe Silverman

This project, “Improv for Diversity and Inclusion,” uses improvisational comedy (improv) as a platform for undergraduate students to deepen their ability to build inclusive communities on campus. Over the course of 6 weeks, we will facilitate introductory improv classes that will culminate in a performance for the wider community. We collaborated with the library to develop a marketing plan to attract students across a wide range of identities. Our project provides undergraduate students with a safe and non-judgmental space to engage with individuals of diverse perspectives. Additionally, emerging research suggests that improv comedy can be applied as a therapeutic intervention to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, so this project will also positively affect mental health outcomes on the individual level. Overall, the main goal of this project is to explore how improv can be used as a tool to promote diversity and inclusion on college campuses, and the curriculum also reflects that mission.

Library Mentor: Jason Imbesi