Join us for the gallery opening of "Hburg Hues and Views"!
March 31 | Noon–1 p.m. | The Union, Taylor Down Under

Hburg Hues and Views is the brainchild of Dr. Elim Hernandez (known as “Dr. H.” by many in the JMU community). His passion for building connection between JMU students and the surrounding community drives him to seek out short, simple, yet compelling stories of community and humanness within the Harrisonburg area. Dr. H. now continues this work alongside Charlie Bodenstein, Audrey Goldman, Brandon Portillo Aponte, and Landon Shackelford, who have helped expand it to include photography, videography, and Spanish-language stories. Hburg Hues and Views offers a window into individuals’ lived experiences while intentionally preserving anonymity, allowing listeners to engage with each story openly and without preconceived assumptions. 

This project grows through the voices shared by the people in the Harrisonburg community and across campus. If this exhibit sparks any memories, reflections, anecdotes, or small stories for you, you’re invited to contribute! Our hope is that gathering these stories will help us recognize the common threads in our experiences and connect with one another, rather than focusing on what sets us apart. 

If you would like to participate, record a short (around 30-second) story and send the recording link to us via a direct message on Instagram @hburghuesandviews or via email at jgpvm7@jmu.edu. English or Spanish are preferred, but if you would like to share your story in another language, we kindly ask that you also provide the written transcription of your story as well as an English translation. We don’t collect any identifying details like names or titles, only your story in your voice. We do require that all contributors are 18 or older and part of the Harrisonburg and/or JMU campus community. 

View the full collection here