NE honors students, agencies in Service Learning program
by Nick Nance, managing editor

    More than 300 NE students and faculty were honored for their willingness to learn and serve the community through the Service Learning Program.

   The event marked the first recognition ceremony for Service Learning.

   Dr. Larry Darlage, campus president, expressed his pleasure with the turnout for the event.

   “I am glad you all made it tonight,” he said.

   “When you do something like this, you never really know what is going to happen,” he said.

   Some NE Campus instructors took part in Service Learning by incorporating community service opportunities into their curriculum.

   As part of the program, the students volunteer with participating agencies throughout Tarrant County.

   It is believed that Service Learning enhances the learning experience of the students through community service with various agencies, and that is the program’s motto, Darlage said.

   Each student received a certificate and Service Learning lapel pin.

   Thirty agencies in Tarrant County participated in the program.

   The participants included local police departments, health care facilities, child outreach programs and substance abuse programs.

   “When I originally came to TCC, one thing that really impressed me about NE Tarrant County was the volunteerism in the area,” he said

   Lori Fowler, sociology instructor on NE Campus, expressed her joy in being part of the project.

   “I always tell my students, I produce the venue, and it is up to them to take advantage of it,” she said.

   Several agencies were present and recognized for their participation in the program.

   Agencies recognized received a certificate.

   Dr. Robert Levy of the dental hygiene program spoke of the benefits of Service Learning.

   “Rewards from community service are not measured in grades or GPA or even in the end result, but are measured by what is in your heart,” he said.

   “Don’t stop serving the community. I hope you’re all as addicted to volunteering as I am,” the dentist said.

   For information about the Service Learning Program, contact NE Campus career and employment services at 817-515-6629.