AmeriCorps has recognized five Kentucky institutions as Schools of National Service; Asbury University, Kentucky Wesleyan College, Lindsey Wilson College, Madisonville Community College, and Union College. This title benefits both institutions and the AmeriCorps alumni. Schools of National Service recognize AmeriCorps alumni who are a valuable asset to the academic community. It is a way to reward the AmeriCorps members by providing educational benefits to students who choose to serve. It is also a way for the institutions to host individuals that want to be role models on their campus and in their community, making a win-win program.

“The AmeriCorps Schools of National Service initiative recognizes that individuals who serve in AmeriCorps bring tremendous value to higher education or other post-secondary experiences that benefit the institution, other students, and their community. Their experience, leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to civic engagement are welcome additions to any learning environment.”

KyCC provides opportunities every year for more than 100 Kentucky college graduates, college students, and other citizens to serve as AmeriCorps members. Many want to further their academic careers and would jump at the opportunity to have additional support from a college or university. Since 1994, more than 13,000 Kentuckians have served approximately 21 million hours through AmeriCorps, earning Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards totaling more than $50.5 million. These members have volunteered with KyCC and other Kentucky programs and are interested in using their education award at a Kentucky college or university. KyCC congratulates and appreciates the leadership role their members Kentucky Wesleyan College, Lindsey Wilson College, and Madisonville Community College, have taken by joining SONS. KyCC also recognizes Union College, a former member, for joining SONS when it first started in 2007. Now there is momentum building to have more Kentucky higher education institutions participate in this win-win program.

“AmeriCorps members are trained leaders, community-minded, and driven to make a difference in the world.”

To be considered a School of National Service, an institution must enter into a written commitment to provide any of the following incentives to AmeriCorps members and alumni.

• Tuition matching for the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award (could be at the undergraduate or graduate level and could be specific to a school or program)
• Scholarship or fellowship to AmeriCorps alumni
• Priority points for admission consideration for AmeriCorps alumni
• In-state tuition for AmeriCorps alumni
• Cover expenses like books and supplies, room and board, or other personal costs like transportation for AmeriCorps alumni
• One-year enrollment deferrals for individuals to serve in AmeriCorps
• Academic credit for AmeriCorps experience
• Other incentives that vary by institution

For more information about how your institution can qualify to become an AmeriCorps’ School of National Service or become an AmeriCorps member at one of the schools, please visit https://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps/segal-americorps-education-award/schools-national-service.