Josh Krawczyk
Director, Volunteer and
Service Learning Center (VSLC)
April 2007
16,000+ undergraduate students
• Approximately 10% live on campus
• High international student population
• Racially and ethnically diverse
• High % of nontraditional students
Service Learning and students don’t exist in a vacuum
Service Learning must fit within the context of their careers at UCO
“Meet them where they are”
Housed in Division of Student Affairs
• Director reports to VP Student Affairs
VSLC has two full-time staff, Director and Volunteer Coordinator
• Duties divided: Volunteer Coordinator handles all extra curricular service activities, Director handles all curricular service
The VSLC addresses the needs of three groups:
• Students
• Faculty
• Community Partners
“Meet them where they are…”
President
Provost
VP, Student Affairs
• Entire Division of Student Affairs
Deans
Faculty
Student Government
VSLC Mission
The Volunteer and Service Learning Center at
UCO will provide diverse opportunities for students to perform meaningful service in the
Edmond and Oklahoma City communities. The
Center will act as a partner and resource for students, faculty and community members in developing and implementing volunteer and service learning projects. These efforts will promote civic engagement by instilling a commitment to public life through communities of practice.
The Division of Student Affairs will provide a challenging and supportive community for students by fostering their understanding of self, appreciation of diversity and
commitment to service. These goals are achieved by providing progressive and inclusive programs and services that enhance student learning and well being.
Integrity
We earn trust through honesty and ethical leadership.
Student Centered
We offer an integrated, relevant educational experience.
Academic Excellence
We foster critical thinking, communication, and a passion for life-long learning.
Continuous Improvement
We achieve excellence through decisions based on information and analysis.
Collegiality
We uphold an atmosphere of mutual respect, professional behavior and academic freedom.
Community
We cultivate community involvement and civic engagement.
1) Engage all students in: a) Leadership, b) Research and creative activities, and c) SERVICE LEARNING ACTIVITIES.
3) Increase collaborations: a) on the UCO campus, b) among institutions, and c) WITH THE OUTSIDE COMMUNITY
Scholarship incentives for students
Release time for faculty
Departmental grants
Hard funding critical for sustainability
Identify existing SL, or versions of it
Understand existing culture of service
Establish measurable goals, clear vision for future
Best practices at peer institutions
Resource groups: Campus Compact,
National SL Clearinghouse, listservs
Josh Krawczyk
Director, VSLC
University of Central Oklahoma
(405)974-2622
JKrawczyk@ucok.edu
www.ucok.edu/volunteer