Utah State University AmeriCorps Program Strongest in State

A recent report from the Utah Campus Compact (UCC) revealed the Utah State University Education Outreach program had the highest number of AmeriCorps members serving through a UCC higher education institution. Education Outreach, a program within the USU Center for Civic Engagement and Service-Learning, had 173 USU students complete an AmeriCorps term of service in the 2013-14 program year.

“AmeriCorps adds value to everyone involved — the students, the sites where they serve and to the university,” said Education Outreach program coordinator Todd Milovch.

USU’s AmeriCorps members completed service as afterschool tutors and mentors, student teachers, dietetics interns and school counseling interns in Logan and Cache School districts, along with other schools throughout the state. AmeriCorps members served an average of 1,411 students per day in afterschool programs.

These kids end up in the afterschool program for many reasons, but once there, they have the opportunity to get the extra help they need.

“I think the most important thing that we do is help them not only educationally, but socially,” said AmeriCorps volunteer Gavin Mikesell.

The 173 AmeriCorps members also earned $161,394 in AmeriCorps education awards that can be utilized to cover the costs of tuition — much of which will be spent at USU — and for repayment of student loans. 

Led by Vice President James Morales, the Division of Student Services at Utah State University is committed to student success and organized into 15 departments, each with a variety of dedicated programs and services that foster engagement, leadership, wellness and access and diversity for all students.

Contact: Sean Damitz, Center for Civic Engagement and Service-Learning, (cell) 435-770-6104, sean.damitz@usu.edu