Wittenberg University is committed to providing its students with a distinctive, life-changing education. We are committed to community service, which allows our students to connect what they have learned in the classroom with real-world challenges in the community. Through community service, our students gain a sense of responsibility and empathy. They also contribute to the well-being of our local community, experiencing personal growth that remains with them throughout their lives. Our alumni often reflect back on the impact that community service made on them. Here are a few of their stories.
Brian Duke ’12
My time at Wittenberg University was an incredibly rewarding experience. As a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity, a member of the sailing team, and a head orientation assistant, I was able to get involved in a variety of activities.
One of my favorite memories was helping new students move into their dorms. It was so much fun to be able to welcome them to campus and help them get settled quickly. This experience was unique to Wittenberg and really helped me to feel connected to the campus and the community.
My involvement in all of these activities challenged me to grow and expand my mindset. I was able to go on a service-learning trip to Lesotho, a developing country in Africa, which was an eye-opening experience. I was able to see the lack of basic amenities and help the people there by planting fruit orchards and working on housing initiatives. This experience taught me the importance of community and helped me to understand the concept of Ubuntu, which is “I am because we are.”
My time at Wittenberg helped me to gain interpersonal and professional skills, and find my direction in life. It encouraged me to challenge myself and go beyond my comfort zone. I am grateful for the memories and experiences I had at Wittenberg and the way it has shaped me into the person I am today.
Dana Neufeld Beatty ’81
My time at Wittenberg University was one of the most meaningful and transformational experiences of my life. I was fortunate enough to have my younger brother attend as well.
Wittenberg had some of the most exceptional and wonderful people whom I got to know during my four years there. I made lifelong friends I am in touch with, many of whom I see to this day. When I first walked onto campus, I felt an energy and passion that told me I was in the right place. I majored in psychology and later added a business minor.
After doing an internship in Camarillo, California, where I worked with acute psychotic adolescents, this experience in psychology helped me realize I wanted to use my studies and apply it in the business world.
I was very involved in the University and was honored to be the president of my sorority, Chi Omega, my junior and senior year. I was also asked to be a member of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology; Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership, Academic and Service Honor Society; and a member of the Panhellenic Council. I also was on Homecoming Court my senior year.
My education at Wittenberg taught me about discipline, teamwork, leadership, and the importance of community service. All these skills played a significant role in ultimately rising to be an executive with IBM, including managing and leading multiple teams over my career, which was an incredible privilege. Although I had the opportunity to advance even further, I chose to put my family first, while maintaining a fulfilling career.
My time at Wittenberg was truly life-changing, and I am so grateful for the experiences I had there.
Jennifer Lewis-Thornton ’96
My time at Wittenberg University was truly special. I had the opportunity to develop my character and learn how to speak up for myself.
I was lucky enough to join Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Omicron Theta chapter, and become a lifetime member. I was even chapter president! Through this experience, I gained sisters. I learned how to become a leader and organize community service events.
I was also blessed with amazing professors who cared about me and my future. They knew me by name and would call me if I didn't show up to class. One of my freshman professors was even the mayor of Springfield! I am so grateful for my time at Wittenberg and the impact it had on my life.
Evan Cameron ’14
I attended Wittenberg University because I was really interested in their community service requirement. During my four years there, I was heavily involved in the Hagen Center, which is still around today. I went on the well-regarded Lesotho trip and did Habitat for Humanity collegiate builds every spring break.
I felt overall that Wittenberg had a higher percentage of young adults who cared about serving their neighbor than other liberal arts schools. I was really inspired by the spirit of service and loving your neighbor that was so authentic and real at Witt.
During my time at Wittenberg, I also worked at the Rocking Horse Center in Springfield, which was a really amazing place. I was inspired by the leadership there and how public health could be done really well in a smaller setting.