Bentley University’s Service-Learning program has experienced rapid growth in recent years, forcing administrators to temporarily cap studentparticipation as demand continues to rise. Over the past two years alone, the program has expanded by roughly 25%, reflecting growing student interest incommunity engagement.
The Bentley Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Center (BSLCE), located in Morrison Hall 101, integrates volunteer work directly into academiccoursework. Even before this year, the program was already the largest of its kind in the country, according to Jonathan White, director of the BSLCE.
Last year, more than 1,200 Bentley students participated in service-learning opportunities. Just a few years earlier, participation included around 900students, highlighting the program’s rapid expansion.
Unlike traditional volunteer opportunities, the BSLCE requires students to complete 15 to 20 hours of community work during the semester on top of their regular courses. White credits increased faculty involvement and support from University President E. LaBrent Chrite as well as Provost Paul Tesluk for this program’s popularity. Faculty members are encouraged to incorporate service-learning into their courses.
Taking part in the program helps faculty members with promotions and leadership roles.
White also believes student motivations shifted significantly following the COVID-19 pandemic. He suggests that many students feel a desire to overcompensate and seek more which could be fulfilled through service opportunities.
For students like Molly Wildman, service-learning offers both academic and personal benefits. Wildman, who participated in the Hanscom Falcon Flyers program at Hanscom Air Force Base, returned to service-learning after her initial experience.
“I enjoyed taking time out of my week to play and talk with children and try to help them find joy in a time that might be very emotionally tolling for them and their families,” Wildman said. The program supports children from military families who often face frequent relocations and challenges maintaining consistent social connections.
Wildman also emphasized the program’s accessibility and flexibility, noting that the variety of service options allows students to find meaningful opportunities that align with their interests and goals.
Despite the program’s success, the BSLCE has had to limit how many students can participate because of limited resources. White said the exact next steps are still unclear, including whether the cap will stay in place or expand in the future.
However, with strong support from President Chrite and Provost Tesluk, White said he is excited about the future of the program and hopeful that it will continue to grow while maintaining its quality and impact.
