In service-learning courses, our students meet real community needs at sites that are directly connected to their academic coursework. Community partners for our service learning courses include Monroe County Community School Corporation, Midde Way House, and Headstart.

Once a week, the IU students in the class also travel to one of three Monroe County middle schools, where they get together with groups of girls to discuss some of the challenges these girls are facing. As mentors and role models for the girls, IU students in the class often form relationships that extend beyond the semester-long course.

Senior lecturer Linda Hoke-Sinex, who created the course, received a Healthy Schools Award from the Monroe County Community School Corporation for her popular service-learning course. The award recognized Hoke-Sinex for her “dedication to student mental health and wellness.”