Herrera of Collingswood presents Widener University student project during Congressional Briefing in DC

2016 Feb 8

Thomas Herrera is one of four Widener University students who recently traveled to our nation's capital to take part in a Congressional Briefing organized by the New American Colleges and Universities, of which Widener is a member. The event aimed to showcase NAC&U member institutions' approach to teaching and learning, which is the integration of liberal education, professional studies and civic engagement to prepare students for careers and lives as contributing, global citizens.

Herrera, a environmental science major from Collingswood, New Jersey, presented with classmates about a project that connected Widener French students with French-speaking immigrants in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, to help the immigrants with their transition into the United States. The students helped the immigrants with a range of tasks, including scheduling doctor appointments and enrolling in high school. In return, they practiced speaking French and learned about the Francophone culture.

Widener strives to inspire its students to be citizens of character who demonstrate professional and civic leadership. The university provides a wide variety of opportunities for students to develop leadership skills in the classroom, around campus and in in their communities. The Oskin Leadership Institute at Widener offers signature programs to inspire our students to be strategic leaders and responsible citizens who possess the character, courage and competencies to affect positive change throughout the world.

Widener University is a private, metropolitan university that connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention, leadership development and experiential learning are key components of the Widener experience. A comprehensive doctorate-granting university, Widener is comprised of eight schools and colleges that offer liberal arts and sciences, professional and pre-professional curricula leading to associate's, baccalaureate, master's and doctoral degrees. The university's campuses in Chester, Exton, and Harrisburg, Pa., and Wilmington, Del. are proud to be a tobacco-free. Visit the university website, www.widener.edu.