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Arapahoe Community College is proud to unveil its first-ever mural titled Roots of Learning, Wings of Growth, created by Colorado-based artist Shania Lauren Cissell. This vibrant and meaningful artwork captures the spirit of education, growth, and community that defines the college.

At the center of the mural is the Tree of Knowledge, symbolizing the pursuit of wisdom and personal development. The colorful blossoms represent the diversity of the student body and the flourishing of knowledge through learning. Birds soaring from the tree branches embody students as they graduate and take flight into the community and workforce, chasing their dreams. At the base, hands shaped like roots reflect the foundational support provided by educators, the college, and the broader community, nurturing and uplifting students throughout their educational journey.

The mural was made possible by a public art grant awarded in August 2025, following an application submitted earlier that year. After the project was approved, the City of Littleton provided a curated list of artists and concept designs focused on themes of education. The mural request applications were reviewed by the Littleton Museum, City of Littleton Community Development Department, and Arts & Culture Board. This collaboration was part of the city’s ongoing commitment to promoting public art that enriches the community and reflects its values.

�����’s Public Art program is proudly part of Colorado’s Art in Public Places state collection, ensuring that works like this mural contribute to the broader cultural landscape across Colorado.

����ý worked closely with the City to carefully review the proposals. Shania Lauren Cissell’s design spoke directly to our mission and values, capturing the essence of growth, learning, and community support. Together, they selected her mural as the perfect embodiment of the college’s vision.

The artist behind this inspiring work is Shania Lauren Cissell, who works under the name . She is a passionate muralist and fine artist based in Colorado. Shania discovered her love for painting as a child and refined her craft through formal studies at Fort Lewis College and Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, where she majored in Fine Arts. After the birth of her daughter, Shania’s passion for bold, large-scale artwork grew, leading her to embrace muralism as her true calling. Her work aims to inspire and connect with communities by reflecting themes of growth and transformation.

What makes this mural even more special is the hands-on involvement of ����ý students, who worked alongside Shania throughout the creative process. Their energy and collaboration brought a unique spirit to the project, making it a true community creation. One student, Marissa, shared, “Being part of this mural has been an incredible opportunity. It’s amazing to see how art can bring people together and represent our stories while we’re still here at ����ý. I’m proud to have been a part of something that will inspire future students for years to come.”

I would also like to thank all the students who helped paint the mural including, Ace Forrest, Ale Flores, Alexandra Garcia, Bobby Vrabel, Elisa Hansen, Ella Simon, Elizabeth Tessier, FuMei Sorteberg, Jake Chrissinger, Kaysie Carlson, Madi McKeown, Marissa Person, Monica Lopez, Monica Turner, Raven Bock, Sancy Semken, Trinity Kearns, and Willow Sanchez. Together, they contributed a total of 130 hours to the project.

Roots of Learning, Wings of Growth is more than just a mural. It celebrates education, community, and the journey students embark on as they learn, grow, and take flight into their futures. ����ý invites everyone to visit and experience this beautiful testament to the power of learning and support.

Please join us for a ribbon cutting and to meet the artist on Friday, November 7, from 4:00–5:00pm in front of the mural located on the west side of the main building on the Littleton Campus.

Read more about the project in this .