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Cadet service learning projects continue with community partners

Cadet Service Learning Continues with Community Partners: Francis Marion, UA

On Saturday, Sept. 17, more than 30 select cadets, members of MMI’s Servant Leaders Club, worked on beautification projects at three sites in the city of Marion: cleaning and repairing the Francis Marion High School football stadium, restoring the elementary school playground, and continuing our revitalization of the downtown business district. This day of service involved two community partners: Francis Marion High School students and fellows representing the University of Alabama Honor College’s 57 Miles project.

Speaking as MMI's Deputy Director for Leadership & Career Development and Servant Leaders Club Sponsor, COL Ed Passmore, USA (Ret) noted that the day's work was more than just a community service event:

“Cleaning the playground and stadium and our revitalization of the downtown projects were just one aspect of the experience for our cadets. Our Days of Service are meant to connect MMI with our community and partner with them in these types of projects. This work pays many dividends for all involved and is in the best keeping of MMI’s Motto of Truth, Honor, Service.  Additionally, as a center of excellence in character and leadership development we go beyond this by adding on an academic and leadership component. By presenting the cadets with the historical and demographic background of our region, they understand and appreciate what impact their work can and does have on the community.  As with all activities at MMI, leadership experiences are incorporated, in this case whereby the cadets lead the different aspects of the projects, executing assigned tasks and coordinating with their peers and colleagues from UA and Francis Marion School. All this provides more depth to the experience and aligns with our school’s character development curriculum.”    

Working alongside students doing playground cleanup, COL Passmore observed a dramatic before-and-after in the outdoor space. What was once neglected is more suitable for recreation, and the Francis Marion senior class has officially adopted the elementary playground as their annual service project. MMI would like to thank Francis Marion School Principal Dr. Cathy Trimble along with Daniel Jackson and Jackson Harris of the UA Honors College for their outstanding collaboration in coordinating the day’s events.