GSU Seminar Focuses on Civic Engagement

Governors State University is hosting the Civic Reflection Seminar, an opportunity for service professionals and community members to discuss civic engagement, service learning, and how they can make a positive impact on the Chicago Southland region.

A number of area service organizations will participate in the seminar, which takes place Tuesday, April 12, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in GSU’s Hall of Honors.

Topics will include “What are the needs of the community?,” “What can service agencies do to increase civic engagement?,” and “How can community members become engaged?” Service organization exhibits will follow the seminar.

Officials and organizations participating in the panel discussion are: Bryan K. Echols, Metropolitan Area Group for Igniting Civilization, Inc. (MAGIC); Barbara McCormick-Sommerville, South Suburban YWCA; Vicki Sline, Rich Township Food Pantry; Diane Bedrosian, South Suburban Family Shelter; and Carl Wolf, Respond Now.

GSU is a participant in the Project on Civic Reflection, sponsored by the Illinois Campus Compact and funded by the McCormick Foundation. The GSU Civic Reflection Team is made up of Dr. Larry Levinson, Dr. Lorri Glass, and Sheree Y. Sanderson.         

The Project on Civic Reflection is designed to deepen student reflection in the classroom and in service-learning and community engagement initiatives. Learning civic reflection skills is considered a way to develop important professional skills. In addition, civic reflection is seen as a path to improved communication, and as a useful tool in helping people connect to their work, improving retention, increasing job satisfaction, and creating a healthier team dynamic.

The community is encouraged to join student, faculty, and service organizations in this important discussion on civic reflection. The event is free and open to the public.

For information, contact Sheree Sanderson at ssanderson@govst.edu or call (708) 534-4552.