Service Learning | Hilbert College

Service Learning Committee

The Service Learning Committee is an integral part of Hilbert College's service-learning efforts. Members of the Committee help identify priorities for service-learning, serve as faculty liaisons to other faculty members and community organizations, and support professional development. Committee membership is not restricted to faculty; staff members are welcome and encouraged to serve on the committee.

Committee Members:
Dr. Julie Kusmierz, Psychology
Dr. David Reis, Religious Studies
Prof. Dan Roland, Business Administration
Dr. Amy Smith, English
Ms. Rachel Wozniak, Service Learning & Community Engagement

Service Learning

"Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities."
~ Learn and Serve America

At Hilbert, our dedication to our community is strong. All incoming students enrolled in traditional undergraduate programs are required to complete service learning as part of an academic course in order to graduate. This commitment made by administration and faculty reinforces the importance of the connection made through service in educating our students and increasing their understanding of society.

Hilbert believes that service is an integral part of creating a well-rounded college experience for our students. Nestled in the sophomore year of our Hilbert Blueprint, service learning provides an opportunity for our students to embrace the college’s mission and values while strengthening our communities.

Spring 2021 Service Learning Courses

CJ 300/1: Probation, Parole, and Community-Based Correction, Prof D. Zimpfer
FS 318/1: Special Topics in Forensic Science I, Prof. C. Reilly-Nowak
FS 318/2: Special Topics in Forensic Science I, Prof. C. Reilly-Nowak
GS 110/1: Civic Learning through Reading and Writing, Prof. T. Kazmark
GS 110/2: Civic Learning through Reading and Writing, Prof. T. Kazmark
GS 160/1: Introduction to Leadership, Dr. A. Smith
GS 160/2: Introduction to Leadership, Dr. A. Smith
HS 101/1: Introduction to Human Services, Prof C. Kumiega
HS 203/1: Introduction to Counseling, Prof. C. Kumiega
HS 204/1: Basic Interviewing Skills, Prof. C. Kumiega
HS/SO 320/1: Loss, Grief & Dying, Dr. J. Kusmierz
PSY 203/1: Adolescence, Dr. J. Kusmierz
PSY 351/1: Positive Psychology, Dr. J. Kusmierz
RS 202/1: Religion and Social Justice, Dr. D. Reis
SO 201/1: Social Problems, Dr. R. Strachan

Excerpts from Student Reflections

"It is the practical exercises, the hands-on experiences, and the knowledge of physically performing the task in a ‘real world’ setting that will last a lifetime. Yes, learning in a classroom is vital, but [taking] what has been taught in the class, and using it in a practical manner soon after it is taught, to me completes the lesson."

- Student in MA 135: Mathematical Applications, Community Partner: Hamburg Meals on Wheels

"Through the service work . . . performed at Mental Health Peer Connection, my desire to obtain my four-year degree in human services and then move forward toward a master's degree in counseling is no longer a dream, it is the opportunity that is waiting for me down the educational and vocational path of success. Service learning is a great opportunity to research career opportunities and personal growth."

- Student in HS 101: Intro to Human Services, Community Partner: Peer Mental Health Connection