History Meets Technology at York College’s Gunter‑Smith Center: Engaging Community and Students

Transforming a Downtown Landmark into an Interactive Learning Hub

York College’s Gunter‑Smith Center illustrates how a historic building can evolve into a dynamic space for education, collaboration, and community outreach. By blending architectural preservation with modern augmented‑reality (AR) technology, the campus has created a living classroom that invites students, faculty, alumni, and residents to explore the layers of York’s past in an engaging way.

From Family Home to Educational Resource

The structure at 59 East Market Street was erected in 1839 by the influential Small family. Over a century and a half, the building served as a private residence, a men’s club, and more recently an exclusive venue for the Lafayette Club. In 2014, philanthropist Louis J. Appell Jr. donated the property to York College. The donation marked a turning point, allowing the institution to repurpose the space for public service rather than exclusion.

Embedding History with Augmented Reality

York College partnered with Vision Solutions to generate a full‑scale, 3‑D model of the center. The result is an AR experience where visitors can peek at original architectural details, read news clippings, or watch short video narratives overlayed on the physical environment. Students in the Humanities and Digital Media programs can download the same mobile app and develop their own story‑mapping projects, adding a hands‑on research component to their coursework.

Connecting Students, Faculty, and the Community

The center now hosts guest lectures, community‑based research projects, and student‑run tours. The program curriculum includes an elective titled “AR and Historical Preservation,” where participants learn to employ GIS data, photogrammetry, and storytelling techniques to make history accessible online and offline. By offering these practical experiences, York College extends its reach beyond campus and fosters lifelong learning among local partners.

Practical Guide for Prospective Students and Community Partners

Whether you’re applying to York College, looking to volunteer, or seeking a partnership for your local organization, the Gunter‑Smith Center provides concrete opportunities to get involved. Below are actionable steps to help you leverage this unique resource.

1. Explore the AR Tour Before You Apply

Before you submit an application, download the free AR tour from the York College website. By walking through the building virtually, you’ll gain insight into the campus’s history and the kind of interdisciplinary learning it supports. This preview can strengthen your personal statement by illustrating how York College matches your interests in technology, preservation, and community engagement.

2. Apply to the Humanities with a Focus on Digital Storytelling

Courses in Comparative Literature and History now include a digital component that allows students to produce AR experiences. If you’re passionate about blending text, audio, and spatial experiences, shortlisting the Humanities major will give you the tools needed to build a portfolio that showcases your technical and analytical skills.

3. Seek Internship Opportunities in the Center’s Development Team

York College’s development staff oversees the AR project and manages grant proposals for the Paved Over Prominence initiative. An internship here offers hands‑on experience in project governance, budget monitoring, and community outreach—skills essential for careers in public history or nonprofit administration.

4. Partner with the Center for Community‑Based Research

Local schools and nonprofits can collaborate with faculty to document York’s African‑American heritage through oral histories that feed into the AR content. Applying for a partnership involves submitting a proposal through the Office of Community Engagement, demonstrating how the project aligns with both parties’ goals.

5. Take Advantage of Funding Options for Your Visions

York College’s scholarship and grant offices offer funding streams for technology‑enhanced projects. Students proposing AR exhibits or museum‑style displays may qualify for the Digital Media Grant, which covers software licenses, 3‑D printing, and developer stipends.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

The Gunter‑Smith Center exemplifies how historic structures can serve modern educational purposes while remaining accessible to the public. By integrating AR with traditional research, York College demonstrates that the past and future can coexist productively.

To move forward, consider the following actions:

• Visit the campus during an open‑house event and experience the AR walkthrough in person.
• Enroll in a Humanities elective that focuses on digital history.
• Apply for the Digital Media Grant if you plan to build interactive content.
• Contact the Office of Community Engagement to discuss partnership opportunities.
• Submit your application today and join York College’s vibrant community of innovators.

By connecting with York College, you’ll participate in a living laboratory where history informs technology and community aspirations shape educational experiences. Whether you’re a prospective student or a local collaborator, the Gunter‑Smith Center offers a platform to create meaningful, tech‑driven narratives.

Interested in learning more or arranging a campus visit? Apply now or schedule a free campus tour to see the AR experience firsthand.

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