Passion in Progress Festival encourages 'big-picture thinking'

The Passion in Progress Festival will celebrate the cultural richness of the community, the formulation of ideas into action, and the vast potential teenagers have today. Inspired by the concept of "what's the big idea?" the creative workshops, artwork and speakers will entice teens not only to grasp a greater sense of themselves and their communities, but ultimately of their world.

"We hope to inspire the participants to become an inspiration to others," said Dana Hogan, a senior at City Honors School and chairwoman of festival.

The event will motivate teens to consider their talents in a "big picture" perspective. The array of activities planned for the event aims to encourage students to be impassioned to accomplish their goals.

The Passion in Progress Festival's ultimate mission is expressed through three target levels "to inspire high school students and enable them to open their minds to big-picture thinking," Dana said.

First, at the personal level, students will participate in workshops led by notable professionals. Participants can engage in one of three workshops, including a discussion titled "Don't Underestimate Your Potential" by Dr. William Duax, a scientist at the Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute; another featuring Sanjay Connare, founder and CEO of Connare Tech, on "Failure -- a Catalyst for Success"; and a workshop with Laura Flumerfeldt, who will help students channel their talents into concrete goals through a subconscious yet hands-on activity called "Create a Vision Board."