This academic year, 82 students from Mount St. Joseph University (Mount) participated in a student philanthropy program, awarding a total of $6,000 to six local nonprofit organizations.
CINCINNATI, Oh. - The Student Philanthropy Project, funded by the Cambridge Charitable Foundation, encourages students to engage with and give back to their community while integrating academic learning with real-world experience.
"At the Mount, we prepare our students not only for their careers but also to become future community leaders. This program ensures they gain hands-on experience and become engaged citizens,” said Amanda Meeker, director of the Career & Experiential Education Center.
Since 2016, MSJ students have contributed over $60,000 to more than 35 nonprofit organizations through this initiative. The program involves faculty members applying for student philanthropy grants, which are then awarded to nonprofits at the end of each semester as part of a class assignment.
"The main thing that I found interesting about this project is the idea of it. I have never been part of a class where we were given the opportunity to give back to the community in the way we got to in this one. It was interesting to research different non-profit organizations because there are so many that I had no idea even existed,” said student Karlee Daulton.
In photo: Environmental Science class
Spring 2024 Courses and Recipients:
- HON 260 Cincinnati Arts Scene
Instructors: Elizabeth Barkley and Peter Robinson
Recipient: Jazz Alive
- SPR 380-02 Curriculum & Methods for Students with Mild/Moderate Needs
Instructor: Megan Dinnesen
Recipient: Grow, Inc.
- CORE 425 Global Human Rights: The Case for Women & Children
Instructor: Jennifer Morris
Recipient: Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank
- GEO 140-Environmental Science
Instructor: Jamie Titus
Recipient: New Leaf Kitchen
"I was honored to be considered for this grant. The students demonstrated maturity, knowledge, and passion, said Annie Streitmarter, founder of New Leaf Kitchen. “This experience connected the community in an impactful way, and we are honored to have been chosen.”
Caroline Meyer, service learning and engagement coordinator, added, “By engaging in philanthropy, our students not only enhance our campus community but also cultivate a lifelong dedication to making a positive impact. Through giving back, they learn the importance of generosity, leadership, and community—essential qualities for their future success."
In photo: Students from Honors class, Cincinnati Arts Scene, (Catherine Coleman far left, Erin Olakanmi far right) with Laura Gentry, President of Jazz Alive (middle)
About the Mount
As a Catholic institution rooted in the values of the Sisters of Charity, Mount St. Joseph University excels at serving the common good. Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students at the Mount are inspired to think beyond the classroom and redraw the bounds of what’s possible for their futures. This is accomplished through individualized educational experiences, a safe, secure campus environment, and an all-in commitment from faculty
and staff to inspire students to reach their highest potential. The Mount fosters life-long learners who serve, care, and contribute to the world beyond their front doors.
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