© 2016 Niagara University

Sometimes two goals can work hand in hand. Mixing educational experience with concrete and valuable service is a hallmark of the Niagara University experience.

Niagara University and Hand in Hand for Haiti signed a formal agreement in September 2014 in which NU pledged to provide service, research and educational opportunities that support the comprehensive development and operation of Lycée Jean-Baptiste Pointe du Sable. The first cohort of interns and faculty members spent seven weeks in Saint-Marc last summer, helping to fulfill Brennan’s vision that “education in a world-class school is key to the growth, strength and long-term recovery of Haiti and vital to the spirit and independence of its people.”

This year’s group, since arriving July 12, has been helping the Haitian students with their English language skills, teaching sports and cooperative games, and promoting literacy through thoughtfully planned library activities. Thanks to items donated by family, friends and NU faculty members, the students arrived at Lycée Jean-Baptiste Pointe du Sable equipped with 50 recorders, 30 kites, three large parachutes, recorder lesson books, baseball equipment, field hockey gear, jump ropes, Frisbees and books. These items are being used throughout the summer and then left at the school for future use.

It is amazing to see how quickly the interns fell in love with the people and country of Haiti, and embraced their work with the children. I am so proud of them!” Dr. Ciminelli added. “I believe this experience will be life-changing for our interns, and am so thankful for the partnership NU has with Hand in Hand for Haiti.

Any one of the volunteers could say #IamVincent.

Read about this special relationship in Michael Freedman’s fine article on NUNews.