Over the 2012-2013 academic year, the Thayne Center worked with 5,764 students who contributed 104,194 hours of service in our community, a contribution valued at $2.3 million dollars (www.independentsector.org).
We envision a world in which people’s basic needs are met and in which the values of equality and social justice are realized. We believe institutions of higher education have a responsibility to cultivate an engaged citizenry. We are, therefore, dedicated to empowering our students and faculty to realize they have the knowledge and skills to affect positive change in their community.
To establish capacity-building relationships with community organizations, facilitate service-learning development opportunities for faculty, and coordinate service leadership programs for students who are out to change the world.
“If you care about a particular social issue,” said Gail Jessen, Thayne Center director, “we can help serve as the connection to nonprofits that are working on that same issue.”
The Thayne Center’s Alternative Break program, in partnership with Student Life and Leadership, will offer fall and spring break trips with specific themes including: Environmental Justice in Seattle, WA, Hunger & Homelessness in San Francisco, CA, Animal Rights in Kanab, UT, Indigenous Rights in Hopi Nation, AZ, and a local fall break experience focusing on Food Security. The costs of the trips are partially subsidized by student fees.
Students interested in building their resumes, leadership, academic and professional references, networking and developing job skills while making a difference should explore the Thayne Center’s leadership programs. Students can graduate with distinction as a Civically Engaged Scholar, learn about social justice with SLICE: Student Leaders in Civic Engagement, travel and serve through Alternative Break, earn financial aid and make a difference as an America Reads Tutor or take their learning beyond the classroom through Service-Learning.
The best way to explore these opportunities is online or contact the Thayne Center at 801-957-4555.
