Friday, November 7, 7:30 pm Central Time (via Zoom)
 

Kwame Scruggs, PhD, Mythologist

 

Utilizing a depth psychological perspective through the telling, discussion and analysis of a myth, participants will work through the myth while the myth simultaneously works through them, exploring their search for completion. Portions of a myth are told, stopping at critical points to inquire what resonated in that portion of the myth. Penetrating questions are then asked relative to each portion of the myth. The questions are designed to assist the participant in becoming more aware of themselves and the patterns they use to navigate their way through life. This evidence-based method allows the participants to view situations objectively, through a myth, which allows for reflection, critical-thinking, compassion, and action—all the while, providing a blueprint of how myth can be applied in any setting, with anyone, assisting in the development of the psyche. It creates inner and outer dialogue, develops critical-thinking, and enhances one’s ability to listen and inspire life-changing moments. The application and impact of this method will be briefly demonstrated by talking about Alchemy, Inc., a nationally recognized program based on principles from the Akan people of West Africa, mythological stories, and Jungian concepts.

 

Bio:

Kwame Scruggs has over 20 years of experience using myth in the development of urban youth and adults. He holds a PhD and MA in Mythological Studies with an emphasis in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California. In 1993, he was formally initiated into the Akan System of Life Cycle Development (African-based rites of passage). He is the founder and director of Alchemy, Inc., a non-profit located in Akron, Ohio. Since its inception in 2003, Alchemy has worked with over 2,000 youth and adults primarily in Northeastern Ohio. In 2012, Alchemy was one of 12 programs to receive the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award by the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities—the nation’s highest honor for after-school and out-of-school programs. Kwame accepted this award from First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House.

Objectives:
Participants will: 1) be able to compare and contrast situations in a myth to real-life situations; 2) have broadened perspectives related to mythology; 3) be able to experience enhanced self-reflection and self-discovery.