“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” – Coretta Scott King

This event will be hosted by Raritan Valley Community College.

How do we find our own paths to personally significant community initiatives around things that affect us all, like democratic and civic engagement? This online, interactive event will help participants explore how the impact of service learning (a blended approach involving learning objectives and community service) is more than just an academic experience for students. RVCC faculty and a community partner will lead a discussion about the service learning model and share insight about how a collaborative approach can be an ideal way for students, faculty, and the community at large to get involved with local nonprofits and, ultimately, exchange ideas and questions about topics on democratic and civic engagement, and other related areas.

Participants in the “When Community Becomes the Classroom, Everyone Wins” will be invited to return to a sequel event the following week. This follow-up online conversation, “In the Weeds,” is designed to provide space for participants to talk with each other about the real-life application of the “big picture” concepts explored in “When Community Becomes the Classroom, Everyone Wins,” online public presentation.

About DCP

Launched in January 2021, the Democracy Conversation Project (DCP) is an initiative designed to provide opportunities for community discussions about topics like the democratic process, the electoral college, voter suppression, civic engagement, and other areas related to democracy. Administered by the Federation of State Humanities Councils and funded by Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the reach and impact of the DCP will be furthered by collaboration. Eight colleges across the state will convene these public discussions. Faculty and community members will come together to offer this conversation series in March and April.

Panel Presenters:

Dr. Jennifer Pearce-Morris, Associate Professor of Sociology Service learning course: Current Moral and Social Issues Humanities, Social Sciences, Social and & Education Department: Liberal and Fine Arts Division

Dr. Kathryn Suk, Associate Professor of Education and Co-Director of Center of Teaching, Learning and Scholarship Service learning course: Foundations of Education, Education Field Experiences and Pathways to College Success Humanities, Social Sciences, Social and & Education Department: Liberal and Fine Arts Division

Ms. Lauren Frary, Executive Director, Arc of Somerset County and Adjunct Faculty of Human Services Service learning course: Human Behavior and the Social Environment Humanities, Social Sciences, Social and & Education Department: Liberal and Fine Arts Division

Ms. Lori Moog, Director of Service Learning and Community Outreach, Division of Academic Programs and Education Partnerships

FAQ

Will this event be recorded? Yes

Will receive log-in information for this online event? Yes, it will be emailed to you the in the days leading up to the conversation.

Who do I contact with questions? Contact the New Jersey Council for the Humanities at 609.695.4838 or info@njhumanities.org