The Center for Community Engagement, Learning, and Leadership (CCELL) was thrilled to announce a significant milestone recently via this LSU Press Release. At Louisiana State University, 25 seniors have graduated with the prestigious Engaged Citizens distinction in the Spring 2023 ceremony. This cohort represents the largest group of students to have participated in the program to date, and their achievements are truly commendable.

Throughout their academic journey at Louisiana State University, these exceptional students have demonstrated their commitment to making a positive impact on their communities. Collectively, they have earned an impressive 395 service-learning credit hours, demonstrating their dedication to integrating classroom knowledge with real-world experiences to become engaged citizens. Moreover, they have generously contributed approximately 3,240 hours of their time to various local and global initiatives.

Among the numerous volunteer opportunities embraced by this cohort, they have actively engaged with campus entities such as the LSU Food Pantry and the Office of Multicultural Affairs MLK Day of Service. Their involvement has also extended beyond the university grounds, with active participation in organizations like the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS), Companion Animal Alliance, and several East Baton Rouge Parish schools. Notably, one student even embarked on an international medical volunteer trip to Honduras, further exemplifying the commitment to service exhibited by these remarkable individuals.

The Engaged Citizen Program, established jointly by CCELL and LSU Campus Life, serves as a platform to support and recognize the outstanding contributions of undergraduate students who demonstrate a profound dedication to their communities and a sincere desire to address critical societal needs. Any undergraduate student has the opportunity to apply and be part of this remarkable program, which offers a transformative experience that extends beyond the classroom.

CCELL plays a crucial role in fostering the scholarship of community engagement by seamlessly integrating teaching, research, and service. The core principles of civic responsibility and social accountability underpin all of its initiatives. For those interested in delving deeper into service-learning at LSU, CCELL’s website at lsu.edu/ccell provides a wealth of valuable information.

CCELL Director Dr. Sarah Becker spoke about this accomplishment by saying, “We are so proud of this illustrious cohort of graduates who completed required, optional, and contract-optional service-learning coursework during their time at LSU. They have gone above and beyond to contribute to and learn from a wide set of communities. The world ahead of us looks brighter as they carry themselves into their post-LSU lives.”

Campus Life, working in close collaboration with over 400 student organizations, countless student organization leaders, and advisors, is an integral part of the Engaged Citizen Program. It serves as a home to some of LSU’s most cherished traditions, while also striving to enhance student learning through innovative initiatives focused on involvement, leadership, and service. With a commitment to cultivating an increasingly vibrant campus community, Campus Life serves a diverse student population.

Josh Finch is the Director of Campus Life, and he was quoted as saying, “Graduates with the Engaged Citizens Distinction have dedicated a collective 3,340 hours to effecting positive change in their community. These individuals have exhibited leadership skills and have made a significant impact not only in Baton Rouge but also in other areas. I am eager to see how these exceptional individuals will continue to create a positive impact in the world as alumni of LSU.”

In conclusion, Louisiana State University’s Center for Community Engagement, Learning, and Leadership plays a pivotal role in promoting service-learning and community engagement. Through its partnership with Campus Life, CCELL supports the Engaged Citizen Program, which recognizes and celebrates undergraduate students who make a significant impact on their communities. By integrating teaching, research, and service, CCELL fosters civic responsibility and social accountability, contributing to the development of well-rounded, socially conscious individuals.

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