Western New York Service-Learning Summit Reaches Capacity with Engaged Community Partners

More than 70 representatives from colleges, universities, and numerous community and faith-based organizations throughout Western New York attended the Western New York Service-Learning Summit on Nov. 1, hosted by Niagara University's Levesque Institute for Civic Engagement and funded by the John R. Oishei Foundation. Attendees gathered to focus on the ways "High Impact Practices and Partnerships Transform the Community," and to discuss best practices in service learning to enhance community engagement.

The half-day summit, a culmination of a three-part community speaker series sponsored by the Levesque Institute, created a collaborative atmosphere and encouraged dialogue on service learning's role in addressing regional needs. Representing a range of impactful organizations, attendees from groups including Community Missions, the Niagara Falls Boys & Girls Club, Council for Older Adults, and the Buffalo Museum of Science added invaluable perspectives to the discussions.

Danielle Battle, a speaker with The Aspen Institute's Weave: The Social Fabric Project, delivered a keynote that captivated the audience. Known for her dynamic presence, Battle's talk inspired deep engagement, challenging attendees to rethink community transformation through impactful collaborations. Her address sparked lively discussions, leading to a series of networking and round-table exchanges where participants shared successful strategies and forged new partnerships.

Niagara University students, including Brennan Scholars Alannah Soloman, Cristina-Reina Martinez and Salina Mobae, as well as LeeAnn Gajewski, a Levesque Institute work-study student, led table talks to give their perspective of service learning. These conversations highlighted the importance of student involvement in building sustainable community connections.

"This event underscored the coalition's mission to foster reciprocal partnerships that benefit students and communities alike," said Rhonda Bivins-Talley, executive director of the Levesque Institute. "By promoting service learning, the coalition not only aims to instill civic responsibility in students, but also hopes to inspire them to build long-term ties with the Western New York region, strengthening the local workforce and community life."