Tuesday, September 21, 2010
WAGNER COLLEGE GETS COMMUNITY-SERVICE AWARD
By AMISHA PADNANI
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Wagner College was one of six learning institutions nationwide to win a Higher Education Civic Engagement Award from the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars, a nonprofit that seeks to spread awareness about community service.
The Grymes Hill school was recognized for encouraging students to take their learning from the classroom and apply it to the world around them. For instance, through the school's Civic Innovations program, students identified economic and other needs within the Port Richmond neighborhood, which is known for its burgeoning immigrant population.
Through partnerships with local non-profits -- such as El Centro, United Activities Unlimited, Meals on Wheels and others -- the students work to educate residents about social justice, health, the environment and other aspects of society.
According to the school, a 2009 national survey on student engagement found that 71 percent of Wagner's freshman class and 87 percent of seniors participated in community service or volunteer work.
"Wagner College is a true role model for civic engagement in the academic community," said Mike Smith, president of the Washington Center. "The college is teaching students a quality that can't be learned in the classroom alone: the importance of getting involved, giving back and making a difference."
Wagner was selected from 120 nominees. The other five winners were Miami Dade College; Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis; Santa Clara University; the College of New Jersey, and Western Carolina University.
Advance reports on national award for civic engagement
November 2, 2010
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