FHSU University Communications
A partnership between Fort Hays State University, Garden City Community College (GCCC), and Garden City Arts brought together first responders, students, and community members for a unique blend of training and creative collaboration during the First Responder Art Collaboration Training (FACT) on Tuesday, October 28.
Hosted in the Endowment Room on GCCC’s campus, the three-hour event was led by FHSU’s Community Engaged Art class under the supervision of Dr. Amy Schmierbach, professor of art and certified Blue Bridge trainer. The initiative aimed to strengthen communication, empathy, and understanding between first responders and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
FACT began with Blue Bridge Training, a nationally recognized, evidence-based program developed by a retired police chief and father of an autistic son. The curriculum equips first responders with practical strategies for compassionate and effective interactions with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, communities that often face increased vulnerability during emergency situations.
Schmierbach, also the parent of an autistic child, shared her professional and personal insights during the session. “The goal of Blue Bridge is to build confidence, comfort, and mutual understanding,” she said. “Artmaking then provides the perfect space to put those lessons into practice.”
Following the training, participants joined a collaborative weaving workshop where first responders and students worked alongside community members with IDD, including participants from Mosaic and art students from both FHSU and GCCC. The hands-on activity encouraged conversation and cooperation while incorporating repetitive kinetic movement, an approach often used by individuals with autism for self-regulation and sensory comfort.
“The highlight for me was interacting with the young man at the weaving station,” said Robert Scrivner, associate professor of criminal justice and public safety at GCCC. “We had a great conversation about Captain America, and his smile afterward was infectious. Made my day. Plus, I had never woven before, so I really got a lot out of it.”
More than 25 participants attended, including students and professionals from EMS paramedic, criminal justice, and fire safety programs. The event reflected the shared commitment of all partners to foster inclusivity and strengthen community bonds through art and education.
GCCC expressed gratitude to Dr. Schmierbach for bringing the FACT initiative to Garden City, following successful collaborations in Hays, Atwood, and Wichita. The college also thanked Garden City Arts Executive Director Katy Guthrie for her organizational support and leadership in promoting accessible arts programming, as well as Michael Knutson and the GCCC Visual Arts Department for their contributions to making this educational opportunity possible.
“This collaboration demonstrates the power of art to connect people and deepen understanding,” Schmierbach said. “When we combine creativity with compassion, we can truly make a difference in how communities care for one another.”