By Jeshanna Ayala
Staff Writer

“My goal this year is to make this program known to every single student,” were the passionate words of Melanie Clark, director of UNCP’s Leadership and Service Opportunities Program or (LSOP).

The essential mission of the program is to provide opportunities for students to show their leadership through various community and educational projects.

Currently the program has sponsored several events and workshops that range from the Distinguished Speaker Series to the Self-Defense and Rape Awareness Workshop. One of the newest editions to LSOP is the American Democracy Project (ADP), a program geared at citizenship and service.

Students who join LSOP benefit in both personal and professional ways. Those who actively involve themselves in the program can attain a Leadership Transcript, which details all the projects and events that the student has participated in throughout their college career.

In addition, student organizations can compete in the Chancellor’s Cup Competition, a program that allows organizations to win points based on their participation and hours of service in any event sponsored by LSOP.

Currently the program is engaged in efforts to expand its Service Learning Project, a program that blends learning and service.

Clark hopes that LSOP can increase the quantity and consistency of student volunteers through Service Learning. The ultimate goal is to eventually incorporate the Service Learning Project into the university’s academic curriculum.

LSOP has become a unifying force between the university and the surrounding community, according to Clark.

When asked what she is most proud of about the program, Clark paused and her eyes seemed to tear up, “I love it when students take initiative and get involved just because this program gives hope for change.”

For more information on volunteering, contact Melanie Clark at 521-6207, or at melanie.clark@uncp.edu.