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 artist is Shania Lauren Cissell, who works under the name Murals by Shania. 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.