Service-Learning is a method of teaching and learning that integrates community service activities into academic curricula and expands the learning of students from the classroom to the community.

History of Service-Learning at FHSU

In September of 2002, the FHSU service-learning committee was established on the Fort Hays State University campus. Early that fall, the first organized service-learning event was held on campus, with over thirty faculty members attending. During 2002-2003, less than 10 courses with a service-learning component were offered on campus.

In the fall of 2003, a service-learning workshop was held for FHSU faculty and students. Educational workshops for community agencies followed later in the year, with the First Annual Campus-Community Service Fair held that spring. The Campus-Community Service Fair is an opportunity to better educate FHSU students and faculty about the needs, whether service-learning or volunteer, of the community and how they can help meet those needs. In 2003-2004, 32 FHSU faculty members offered 41 different service-learning courses on the FHSU campus. Over 1000 students participated in these courses.

In the fall of 2004, the University chose as one of its performance agreement goals improving civic/community engagement on the campus. Service-learning is one way that students and faculty have the opportunity to be civically engaged. At the close of the 2004-2005 academic year, over 40 faculty offered over 55 courses with a service-learning component, reaching over 1200 students. The Center for Civic Leadership and University Service-Learning Committee are excited about the service-learning projects and activities that are occurring on our campus, in the community, and in communities across the world through service-learning virtually.