Morehead State starts 3rd annual march to service initiative
Morehead State University students continue to demonstrate their dedication to improving the community through the Third Annual March to Service, an initiative led by the Center for Career Development and Experiential Education. Building on the Council on Postsecondary Education’s Kentucky Graduate Profile, the program emphasizes civic engagement as a critical skill for college graduates.
With support from Andrew Sexton (2020, 2022), service-learning coordinator, MSU faculty are incorporating community and civic engagement projects into coursework, providing students with opportunities to apply discipline-specific skills in service-oriented settings.
Sexton emphasized the mutual benefits of these projects.
“March to Service is an incredible opportunity for students to connect their academic experiences to the needs of our community,” said Sexton. “Not only does this initiative prepare students with essential career skills, but it also fosters a sense of responsibility and empathy that strengthens our region.”
At the February kickoff, guest speaker Dr. Janna Vice, senior fellow at CPE, spoke to faculty, deans and department chairs about the Kentucky Graduate Profile and how it helps shape well-rounded graduates prepared for success in the workforce and life.
“The March to Service initiative exemplifies how MSU is bridging classroom learning with real-world experience,” said Associate Provost Dr. Christopher Schroeder. “By engaging in meaningful service projects, our students not only apply their academic knowledge but also develop the civic and professional skills that are critical for lifelong success.”
Throughout March, service projects will offer many opportunities for MSU students and community members to collaborate. Some of these projects include:
- Judging at the East Kentucky Technology Students Conference
- Introducing elementary-aged students to orchestra instruments through a “Meet the Instruments” event before a musical performance
- Lobbying in Frankfort for social workers
Students are prompted to reflect upon these experiences, how they have impacted them, and what career skills they have developed through this work.
Through strategic partnerships and hands-on learning, students contribute to community solutions while building critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills that will serve them well in their future careers.
Students participating in March to Service projects or any other service-oriented opportunity are encouraged to submit a reflection of their experience for consideration for the Spring 2025 Presidential Community Engaged Eagles list.
“This list recognizes MSU students who participate in service projects each semester. This can include service-learning courses, projects with their student organizations, or individual volunteerism in the community,” Sexton said. “I liken it to a Dean's List, except it recognizes service participation instead of academic achievement alone.”
The EngageKY+ Volunteer Generation Fund was renewed for a second year for $54,200 in support of the Engaged Eagles Initiative. In the first year, we received $36,000, allowing the Center to recruit 1,255 volunteers and raise over 1,798 hours of community service in MSU's service region.
Through funding from the second year, MSU will continue to support volunteer efforts through service-learning courses, student organizations, and the professional development of faculty, staff and community partners.
Community partners interested in working with Morehead State University for future service projects can fill out the following survey: https://forms.office.com/r/ZHnqPCvvZy
To learn more about MSU's Center for Career Development & Experiential Education, contact 606-783-2233 or email careerservices@moreheadstate.edu.
