The Office of Engagement Programs at Hendricks Chapel connects students with the City of Syracuse, to spark and strengthen campus and community leaders through mutual service, engaged learning, and sustainable living.
Through the Office of Engagement Programs at Hendricks Chapel, students discover their passions, develop meaningful relationships, and discern actions to accompany their community. We facilitate contextual initiatives that honor local wisdom, illuminate learning, and inspire impact.
Our History
In 1990-91, Students Offering Service was created at Hendricks Chapel and was originally led by a graduate assistant. Francis Parks served as the first director of Students Offering Service and African American Programs.
Students Offering Service was credited for countless student volunteer hours both on campus and in the community. The office created programs and activities that enhanced awareness of the values of diversity, concentrated on engaged volunteerism, as well as the need to respond to deeply felt concerns that affected the University and society as a whole.
Students Offering Service participated in group projects, including building houses for Habitat for Humanity, walking in the Crop Walk to raise awareness and money for local or global hunger, and assisting families at the local Ronald McDonald House.
In 2005, Students Offering Service transformed into the Office of Engagement Programs.