Published February 17, 2025
CAPTION: Officers from the ULM Educators Rising Collegiate Chapter pose with Ace at the 2024
Christmas Tree lighting, where the group held a drive for The Center for Children and
Families. Pictured L-R: Jessica Bullock, Secretary/Treasurer; Anna Clare Lavergne, President; Avery Jones, Vice President
MONROE, LA – The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) Educators Rising Collegiate Chapter and
the ULM School of Education successfully led a community-driven service initiative,
collecting over 1,000 donated items valued at $4,000 and raising $340 in monetary
contributions to support children and families in need across Northeast Louisiana.
This impactful effort was made possible by 40 dedicated volunteers who served both
on campus and at The Center for Children and Families, demonstrating ULM’s commitment
to service learning and community engagement.
In addition to the donation drive, two service-learning workshops were held to educate
ULM students, faculty, and staff on the demographics and challenges faced by children
and families in need throughout the region. These workshops provided valuable insights
and fostered a deeper understanding of service-based education.
As part of the initiative, the ULM Service-Learning Competition recognized outstanding
contributions from the university and local partners:
“The generosity and dedication displayed by our students, faculty, and community partners
highlight the power of education and service working hand in hand,” said ULM Associate
Professor of Education Dr. Amy Weems, who is the Adviser of the ULM Educators Rising
Chapter. “This initiative not only provided tangible support to families but also
reinforced the importance of civic engagement in shaping future educators,” added
Weems.
Dr. Joshua Stockley, Director of the ULM Honors Program, emphasized the importance
of service in student development, stating, “Community engagement is a core value
of the ULM Honors Program, and I am incredibly proud of our students for stepping
up to make a difference. Their generosity reflects their commitment to leadership
and service, and I hope this initiative inspires continued efforts to support families
in need.”
For more information about ULM Educators Rising and future service initiatives, please
contact Dr. Amy L. Weems at weems@ulm.edu.
For more information about the collaboration between the ULM Educators Rising program
and The Center for Children and Families, visit https://www.ulm.edu/news/2024/warhawks_for_hope_christmas_project_110524.html
For more information about The Center for Children and Families, visit www.standforhope.org.
About ULM Educators Rising Collegiate Chapter
ULM Educators Rising is a student-led pre-professional organization dedicated to preparing
future educators through professional development, networking, and service opportunities.
The chapter is committed to fostering a new generation of teachers who are passionate
about community engagement and lifelong learning.
About ULM School of Education
The ULM School of Education prepares aspiring educators through innovative teaching,
research, and service. With a focus on hands-on learning and community impact, the
school equips students with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful difference
in education.
About ULM Honors Program
The ULM Honors Program is a nationally recognized, award-winning program at ULM that
seeks any intellectually curious student who desires to challenge themselves with
new ideas and to work with similarly motivated students. The program is open to any
student of any major.
For more information about the Honors Program, contact Dr. Joshua Stockley at stockley@ulm.edu or 318-342-3216 or visit ulm.edu/honors.
