Connect with a cause that’s bigger than yourself while gaining valuable leadership and communication skills.
Civic engagement is an important pillar of the W.A. Franke Honors College student experience. Honors Civic Engagement Teams (HCET) are the signature program for civic engagement in the Franke Honors College. Students work together on semester-long projects conducted in partnership with a community organization. Such service supplements honors coursework and connects students to the larger community.
The HCET class is a 3-credit, elective course (HNRS 314), available to all Franke Honors students who are in their second year or beyond. This course presents students with an opportunity to read and reflect on the role of service in higher education, as well as the role of service in constructions of American identity. While considering these academic questions, students will practice problem-solving, professional communication, community outreach and more by working four hours per week in a partner organization. Participating in interdisciplinary teams of 2-5 will challenge students to communicate efficiently with their peers, while also working effectively with their partner organization.
Components of the Program
- 1-semester commitment
- 3-credit Honors elective course (HNRS 314) with regular grading
- 4 direct service hours per week and 5 academic hours per week
- Opportunity to work on an interdisciplinary team focused on a semester-long project
HNRS: 314 Ideas Into Action
HNRS 314 is a 3-credit, Honors elective course (HNRS 314), available to all Franke Honors students who are in their second year or beyond. This course presents students with an opportunity to read and reflect on the role of service in higher education, as well as the role of service in constructions of civic identity. While considering these academic questions, students will practice problem-solving, professional communication, community outreach and more by working four hours per week in a partner organization.
This course as two options:
Fall Semester: HNRS 314: Ideas into Action – In-person
The Fall version of the course is developed around teamwork. Students who enroll will participate on an Honors Civic Engagement Team (HCET), an Honors Signature program. HCET student will join interdisciplinary teams of 2-5 students that work together to effectively solve a social issue with a partner organization. This course is an in-person 3 unit elective course.
Spring Semester: HNRS 314 Ideas into Action – Online
In the Spring semester, students can select their own community partners based on their field of study and personal interest. Instead of working on teams, students will work independently on community-based service. Students interested in the Spring HNRS 314 course will need to submit this form prior to Nov. 1.
Previous Community Partners Have Included:
- Iskashi*taa Refugee Harvesting Network
- Imagine Greater Tucson
- Santa Rosa Learning Center Library
- Southern Arizona Against Slavery
- Southwest Kid's Cancer Foundation - Arizona Camp Sunrise and Sidekicks
- Refugee Focus
- Humane Society of Southern Arizona
- El Rio Health Clinic
- Act One
Please email Cheree Meeks to learn more about joining an HCET team.