FRANCISCAN SERVANT LEADER CERTIFICATION

The Servant Leader certification program is designed to provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills in a variety of areas. By participating, students will engage in a range of service experiences throughout their time at Alvernia. We are hopeful that the knowledge and skills acquired will assist in the formation of a lifelong commitment to serve the needs of our local, regional, and even global communities beyond graduation.

Students who satisfy the requirements will achieve the certification at graduation.

Requirements:

  1. One Service-Learning Course: Enroll and complete at least one service-learning course at Alvernia. Students can earn 15 hours of service per course. These courses promote a real-world application of skills learned through coursework. Projects and organizations vary. Learn more about service-learning courses here.
  2. Two Days of Service: Participate in two Days of Service coordinated by the Holleran Center. Students will serve about four to six hours each. Projects vary, but a reflection component is embedded into each experience.
  3. One Alternative Break: Participate in one Alternative Break trip coordinated by the Office of Mission & Ministry. Students will earn 40 hours of service per trip. The student may also participate in a pre-approved mission-centered service trip outside of Alvernia. Learn more an apply for an AB here.
  4. Five Hours to an Educational Need: Serve in our local community (or at home) to address educational needs. For example, volunteer with the Reading Youth Initiative with elementary and middle school programming or with the Reading Collegiate Scholars Program with high school programming.
  5. Five Hours to a Vulnerable Community: Volunteer with an organization that specializes in serving those who are most vulnerable. For example, shelters, food banks/pantries, clothing donations, mental wellness, and support groups.
  6. Five Hours to an Environmental Need: Volunteer with an organization that specializes in serving the sustainability or environmental needs of the community. For example, environmental awareness, conservation and recycling, county park departments, or Alvernia's Bog Turtle Creek Farm.
  7. 100 Hours of Service: Track a total of 100 hours of service in Get Connected.


INTENT TO APPLY FORM