Strangers Project | California State University Monterey Bay

Cal State Monterey Bay Presents: The Strangers Project

Tuesday, April 29th, 2025
Otter Student Union
Exhibition: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. in OSU 2nd and 3rd Floor
Presentation and Q&A: 1 p.m. in OSU Room 310

Share your story! On April 29th, participate in The Strangers Project, a powerful collaborative art initiative focused on anonymously sharing personal stories and fostering dialogue around identity and the human experience. Experience the exhibit in the Otter Student Union from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the OSU 2nd and 3rd floors. Become part of this powerful collaborative art experience.

Join us at 1 p.m. for an inspiring hour with Brandon Doman, the lead artist behind The Strangers Project. Brandon will share insights into its creation, the powerful stories it captures, and meaningful connections it fosters, followed by a Q&A session. FREE pizza provided for all attendees!

For questions and accommodations, please contact Jeff Rensel at jrensel@csumb.edu

What is The Strangers Project?

The Strangers Project is a powerful, ongoing collection of over 85,000 anonymous, handwritten stories shared by people from all walks of life. Founded in 2009 by artist and storyteller Brandon Doman, the project invites individuals to reflect on and share a personal moment, memory, or experience—anything they feel compelled to write—without prompts or expectations.

Each story is a window into a life: raw, honest, and deeply human. Some are funny, others heartbreaking, inspiring, or reflective. Together, they create a tapestry of connection and empathy, reminding us that while we may be strangers, we are never truly alone.

Brandon began the project by simply setting up with a sign that read, “Hi, I’m collecting your stories. Stop and share one with me.” What started as a curiosity grew into a national movement, with pop-up exhibitions, partnerships, and meaningful conversations unfolding wherever the project appears.

This event will bring The Strangers Project to our campus—not only through a collection of stories submitted by our own community, but with a special presentation and Q&A session with Brandon Doman himself.

Why participate?

Because your story matters. Whether it's a quiet reflection or a defining moment, sharing your voice is a powerful act of vulnerability, connection, and self-expression. In contributing, you join a global project that fosters empathy, understanding, and healing—one page at a time.

We hope you'll stop by, reflect, and write. Your words may be just what someone else needs to read.

Learn more and connect with The Strangers Project

https://strangersproject.com/
Instagram: @StrangersProj
Facebook: http://facebook.com/strangersproject
Twitter: @StrangersProj

Otter Student Union

Cal State Monterey Bay Presents: The Strangers Project

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