Betsy Carreno
Staff Writer
The Heritage Mural, located in Lewis Hall, was completed this past month with the help of
various DU students and faculty.
The inspiration and significance toward the mural, best explained by Genaro Balcazar, vice
president for enrollment management and marketing, is: “This mural will reflect our mission,
our history, and our heritage. It reflects the richness of our diversity on the walls of our campus.”
The location of the mural was decided, “To those visiting Dominican for the first time and those who will pass through the halls everyday, we hope that the mural reminds them that Dominican is home to
all,” Fran Gregory, senior graphic designer with DU’s Office of Marketing and Communications,
said in a past interview with the university. One of the students who worked on the mural, Cesar Torres,
explained how his involvement affected the way he views the topic of heritage. “It’s important since
we live in a society full of individuals with different thoughts, cultures, and beliefs. It is essential that
we learn to appreciate one another, and put an end to any racist tendencies,” Torres said.
Torres also commented on his experience working on the mural. “I met the muralist Fran Gregory who was amazing to work with… I thought it would be a nice experience since it was my first time painting
a mural in a higher educational institution” Torres said.
The concept of the blank wall being used to highlight diversity offers a moment of reflection
in the viewer. Balcazar hopes people who stop and see the mural will focus on its vibrance and symbolism.
“When you walk through the hall, it makes you pay attention. The colors are really vibrant
and it’s unlike any other space we have.” Balcazar said.
bcarreno@my.dom.edu
