by Kacy McGonegle, Art from Ashes Creative Intern

My name is Kacy Lee McGonegle. I’m currently finishing up my bachelor’s degree in Journalism at California State University Long Beach. I transferred into Long Beach State in Fall 2021 from Santa Monica College. At Santa Monica College, I received three associate degrees in Journalism, Arts and Humanities, and Social and Behavioral Science. I’ve always been passionate about art as well as helping my community, so when I came across the Arts from Ashes program, I was ecstatic for the opportunity to join the lovely team here as a Creative Intern since their values parallel mine.
I am a feminist and a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I am also a strong advocate for mental health awareness as well as supporting unhoused residents in any way I can. With a deep appreciation for the power of art in storytelling, I have a lot of respect for the Art from Ashes program’s impact on the community by providing a platform for expression and healing.
Although I’m not a Long Beach local, I find the sense of pride and unity in the Long Beach community so heartwarming and inspiring.
— Kacy McGonegle, Art from Ashes Creative Intern
In addition to getting to know this community better, I look forward to utilizing my creativity and storytelling skills to contribute to such a great cause!