Wayne State University Community Scholars

A group of high-achieving Wayne State University students put in nearly 2,000 hours this past fall working alongside Habitat for Humanity in an effort to make a difference in a Detroit neighborhood. In August and September, more than 200 students from Wayne State's Community of Scholars worked 1,800 hours on various projects throughout the Morningside neighborhood on Detroit's east side. Students cleaned up debris from lots, planted new trees and shrubs, and helped on construction projects.

Habitat for Humanity Detroit plans to recognize Wayne State as one of its Community Partners of the Year at its Red Carpet Bash 25th Anniversary Gala, which takes place Sunday, Feb. 26, at the Max M. Fisher Music Center.

"Habitat for Humanity Detroit is extremely grateful to partner with Wayne State University and its Community of Scholars," said Vincent Tilford, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Detroit. "This dedicated group of students provides tremendous support to Habitat Detroit, from participating in community clean-up projects to surveying residents and neighborhood conditions. They enhance our work every step of the way and enthusiastically share their time, talent and treasure. We are thrilled to honor them as one of our Community Partners of the Year - a recognition that is well deserved."

Habitat for Humanity Detroit will also recognize one scholar, sophomore Hannah Mathers, who went beyond just volunteering with her student peers. She was inspired by the work taking place in the neighborhood and got more involved by helping to organize events and projects, and supervise other volunteers. For her work, Mathers has been nominated for a "Habbie," the organization's award to outstanding volunteers.

"Service to the community is one of the cornerstones of the Community of Scholars," said Jerry Herron, dean of WSU's Irvin D. Reid Honors College. "These fine young women and men learn about our community by serving it, and we are proud of the work they have done to help improve the conditions of the Morningside neighborhood."

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Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering more than 400 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 32,000 students.