New Orleans , Louisiana, Service Learning Trip - May 17-24, 2008

• Service Learning Opportunities Home | 
• NOLA Application Form | 
• Photo Gallery

A group of 40 students, alumni, faculty, and staff traveled to New Orleans, LA, January 5-12 to aid in the rebuilding efforts due to the devastation of hurricane Katrina. The Wheelock group worked alongside Habitat for Humanity on various rebuilding projects in St. Bernard Parish.

Thank you to all of our friends and professional contacts in the New Orleans area who welcomed us back for our fourth visit with open arms. While working in St. Bernard Parish, the group also had many visits to local organizations and schools such as, The Kinsley House, St. Bernard Women’s Shelter, The New Orleans Aquarium, and Tulane Hospital for a special tour by Child Life Specialist Rene Guilbeau ’94. 

This was the first trip that included alumni participation. We thank Kathryn (Pinky) McEldowney ’69, Rosemary Schantz ’79, Ted Schantz ’80, Kendra Mrozek ’07 and Jess Stacy ’06 for joining us. It was an amazing experience we will not soon forget!

To celebrate a week of hard work and the many accomplishments of our friends in NOLA, a reception was held at Bacco in the French Quarter. 75 guests attended the lively reception and listened to our College President Jackie Jenkins-Scott’s inspiring words. President Jenkins-Scott conveyed that Wheelock is committed to the efforts rebuilding New Orleans and will be back twice a year for as long as it takes- at the very least - the next ten years!

The room was filled with positive energy, hope and encouragement. Alumna Ramona Patterson ’77MSwho joined us from Baton Rouge described it best when she said “I always had this feeling inside of me and never knew what it was until tonight, it is Wheelock. I am so proud of my institution and all of you. Thank you.”

Our next trip to New Orleans will be May 17-24th. If you are interested in this amazing community service travel program, please contact Brianne Kimble in the Alumni Relations Office at (617) 879-2261 or bkimble@wheelock.edu.