Public Service Week, an annual series organized by Engaged U.Va., wrapped up a busy schedule of 26 events over the past week. Organizers planned a variety of activities and events designed to foster networking, volunteering and discussions on the importance of public service.
The week ran from Oct. 11 to Oct 18 — a change from past Public Service Weeks which have historically occurred in the spring. Senior Academic Program Officer Ellen Blackmon said the transition is better to accommodate students' academic calendars and provide them with opportunities to engage with public service initiatives throughout the year.
“There are so many ways for students to plug in,” Blackmon said. “Public Service Week is really just about bringing those opportunities to the forefront.”
Many of the events targeted career pathways, such as healthcare consulting, government and the Navy. Blackmon encouraged students to think about the way public service can and will impact their future careers outside of just the University bubble.
“Will you work for a nonprofit, or work with the government?,” Blackmon said. “Will you enlist in the military? That’s a big part of public service. If you work in the for-profit sector, what resources and opportunities might you have to contribute to your community?"
Graduate Batten student Madison Cohen had the opportunity to interview David Miliband, president of the International Rescue Committee, through a Public Service Week event. The IRC is a global humanitarian aid organization with 28 locations across America. Miliband came to speak about his career path, from policy analysis to non-profit leadership.
“Mr. Miliband shared incredible insights for students interested in public service and was generous in sharing some of his own experiences with us,” Cohen said.
Other events included The Morven Kitchen Garden and Office for Sustainability’s Oct. 14 “Plant to Plate” volunteer day for participants to view all aspects of crop cultivation. The Corner Cleanup Sunday, with the Office of Sustainability, began 11 a.m. Oct. 15 at Madison Hall and also provided students the chance to volunteer.
The Public Service Week site also lists the Kash Institute’s Democracy 360 conference, a three-day event from Thursday to Friday featuring leaders, policymakers, journalists and more. Additionally, the undergraduate majors fair will be held from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the Peabody Lawn.
For more information about Public Service Week at the University and the full calendar of events, students can visit the Engaged U.Va. website.
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