Over the course of the 2014-15 school year, Wayne State student-athletes set a record total of 10,754 service hours.
As student-athletes often act as the face of a university, they are seen as role models to students as well. Television and movies often portray student-athletes as students who only succeed due to their physical abilities, caring about parties, games, and little else. Wayne State made a point to ensure that all students are well-rounded and understand the importance of giving back to the community.
While most students are accustomed to their school athletes dedicating time to their sports and schoolwork, Wayne State student-athletes are encouraged to give back to their community as well, and have given the university one more thing to be proud of.
"This is the second consecutive year our student-athletes have contributed over 10,000 hours to help others ... and teach themselves a valuable lesson too. That type of commitment underscores the athletic and academic achievement we champion as a department," said WSU Director of Athletics Rob Fournier to Jeff Weiss, the Associate Athletics Director for Media Relations.
Going to school in Detroit, which is currently experiencing a rebirth, all WSU students should feel passionate about helping the city and the people within it.
"The student's ability to recognize the needs of others and assist each and every year is inspiring and shows that they are committed to making our WSU campus, and the City of Detroit a place that truly cares about people,” said WSU Associate Athletics Director for Academic Support and Senior Woman Administrator Candice Howard to Weiss.
Over the course of the last five years, Wayne State student-athletes have contributed over 46,300 volunteer hours to places such as Salvation Army Red Kettle, The Children's Center, the Woodward Academy, Relay For Life, Covenant House of Michigan, Make-A-Wish Foundation, DMC Children's Hospital, and Gleaners Food Bank.
While this amount of dedication to the community from any person is impressive, the fact that it is a group of young adults who are balancing school, sports, and oftentimes even jobs as well is inspiring. Wayne State student-athletes truly are amazing role models, not just for the univeristy, but for everyone.
