Students Sign Declaration of Service [02/25/2009]

by Felecia Grant

The University of South Florida Marshall Student Center in Tampa was a scene of a gathering to watch coverage of the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama. Screens throughout the center carried the telecast of the inauguration. Everyone present was asked to do more than just sit and watch. The people in attendance were asked to sign the “Declaration of Service” at the event. Copies were available for everyone to sign an the USF Center for Leadership & Civic Engagement, the sponsor of the event, also informed people about how their Center can assist them with all their service interests.

Along with the staff of the Center for Leadership & Civic Engagement, the Public Research Interest Group discussed ways students can volunteer their time and energy on campus and in the community. Attendees were also asked to write on a “Yes We Can” can – a piece of paper shaped like a can where each person can write their hopes for the new administration and what they are willing to commit to doing themselves to further progress in America. In addition, several political and activist student organizations had table displays and materials to pass out to interested students. The College Democrats sponsored a “photo opportunity” with a life-size replica of Barack Obama.

In regards to the event, Jennifer Espinola, Director of the USF Center for Leadership & Civic Engagement said, “Regardless of anyone’s participation in the election process, we hope that our entire university community can embrace the inauguration of our new President and all that it stands for. The Center for Leadership & Civic Engagement strives to help each student become effective, ethical leaders who serve as engaged citizens and we sponsor this event to inspire us all to continue active participation in our communities.”