Community Engagement Scholars

Each semester, the department selects several faculty to work with a cohort of Community Engagement Scholars.

The Scholars are trained student leaders who assist faculty teaching academic service-learning courses or departments with growing community partnerships, community-based research projects, or other community-engagement efforts. Scholars receive training from the Center for Civic Engagement & Social Impact, as well as a stipend and the opportunity to participate in professional development workshops.

Each week, Community Engagement Scholars spend approximately 5-8 hours coordinating service-learning programs and services.

Responsibilities

  • Foster an atmosphere on campus and in the classroom where students feel empowered to participate in public service.
  • Work collaboratively with faculty to prepare students for public service at local non-profit agencies.
  • Coordinate with non-profit agencies for class presentations, logistics, and orientation for student volunteers.
  • Meet weekly with faculty collaborator to discuss the progress of the action plan for implementing service-learning into the curriculum.
  • Maintain regular communication with faculty, students in the course, and non-profit agencies.
  • Create a list of each student’s service project and number of hours served.
  • Facilitate a classroom presentation about the benefits of service-learning on students and the community.
  • Actively participate in Community Engagement Scholars Orientation.
  • Prepare reflection activities for students throughout the course.
  • If applicable, coordinate group presentations at the end of the semester.
  • If applicable, coordinate a ride share program for students serving at the same community agency.
  • Participate in bi-weekly paraprofessional workshops on such topics as: resume building, financial literacy, time management, and active citizenship.
  • Meet with the Center for Civic Engagement & Social Impact staff periodically to discuss progress.
  • Other duties as assigned by the faculty partner.

Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled in a West Chester University undergraduate or graduate program
  • Interest and enthusiasm for working with peers either individually or in groups
  • Knowledge and/or experience in working with community agencies  
  • Ability to organize, prioritize, and multi-task in a timely manner
  • Demonstrated oral and written communication skills

Selection Process

New CE Scholars and Faculty Partners are selected each semester. Interested faculty should apply to our office first. For the application and/or assistance with creating a plan of action for your course or department, please contact Associate Director, Ella Guimond .

Once they are selected for the program, individual faculty and departments are responsible for assisting with recruiting and selecting a student.