SCC students honored as Missouri Campus Compact Community Changers

Published: 05/20/2015

“We are proud to recognize Ms. Pizzo and Ms. Kaid for their work to engage with the community and build lives of civic and social responsibility,” said Tabitha Underwood, Ph.D., executive director of Missouri Campus Compact. 

Missouri Campus Compact seeks to educate students in civic and social responsibility by encouraging them to give their time and talents in service to the public good.  The Semester of Service Program provides a venue to showcase and celebrate student achievement in community engagement. “Each year we are inspired by the students’ willingness to give their time and talents to impact their communities,” said Underwood. 

Maria used the A+ Program to kick-start her college education at SCC. “I just figured SCC would give me a great foundation,” said Maria. 

Maria said she quickly discovered becoming involved at SCC offered her much more than just a foundation for her education. It provided her the opportunity to gain real life experience.

“My absolute favorite part about SCC is all of the student activities and opportunities on campus,” said Maria, whose roles on campus included president of Phi Beta Lambda, vice president of Student Senate, member of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, member of Students for Sensible Drug Policy, and a blogger at stchas.edu/blogs.

Maria completed a total of 47 hours of volunteer service during the fall 2014 semester. She volunteered at a number of service activities throughout the semester and represented SCC while visiting area high schools.

“It’s important to become involved in your community,” said Maria. “It’s fun and rewarding. Even a small contribution can make a huge difference in the eyes of someone else.” In May, Maria graduated with high honors and an Associate of Arts degree from SCC. She plans to transfer to Southeast Missouri State University.

Etedal also used a scholarship to start her education at SCC. As an SCC Foundation and Board of Trustees scholarship recipient, Etedal studied accounting and finance. She chose SCC over other colleges because she wanted to earn her degree debt-free. 

Etedal said she was up for a challenge when she decided to start dedicating her free time to community service.

“Taking part in volunteering has taught me compassion and understanding,” said Etedal. “One of my favorite things about community service is that there are always opportunities and choices around you.”

Etedal completed a total of 88 hours of volunteer service during the semester. She volunteered on campus and tutored at the Al-man Saturday School, and participated in a number of other service activities.

In May, Etedal earned an Associate of Arts degree with high honors from SCC. She has plans to receive her bachelor’s degree from St. Louis University.