Mary Jo McConnell

DE-CRUIT
Our service members are wired for war. They lead mission-specific lives in the military, and rely on their comrades-in-arms for their very survival. After separation from active duty, many of our service members face PTSD, isolation, and joblessness. As a proud De-Cruiter, I help implement Stephan Wolfert’s revolutionary program using techniques found in theatre training and personal narrative combined with Shakespeare to promote wellness in the veteran community. The most important tool is camaraderie. Visit https://www.decruit.org for more information.

EXIT 12 - MOVED BY WAR

MJ is a featured veteran in this stirring documentary short film, directed by Mohammad Gorjestani for the SquareUp series. EXIT 12 Dance Company was founded by Román Baca, an Iraqi war veteran and classically-trained dancer. His company tells veteran-centric stories through their exquisite discipline as well as offering workshops to the veteran community. Watch the movie at https://vimeo.com/312834658

WOMEN IN POWER

Sharone Halevy created a collage that “depicted women when they felt powerful”. I was honored to be a part of this project; Sharone captured 2nd Lieutenant Mary Jo McConnell returning from the field during bootcamp at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

to see the collage visit https://www.paintingsbysharone.com/womxn-in-power