NWTC Service-Learning and Civic Engagement 2017-2018 | Page 7

an advocate for service-learning programming. “I feel that that giving our students the opportunity to interact with local community members is a vital aspect of teaching our criminal justice students the gift of giving back.” He goes on to explain that with the implementation of these community events students are utilizing skills taught in the classroom like professional communication, cultural competency, and community policing. The students also create lasting relationships with community leaders, area youth and community members, and area emergency personnel. Many of these events take place at Oneida Tribal Community Centers, providing students with an opportunity to learn about the Oneida Culture and meet the people of the Oneida Nation. According to Ninham, “The community events help everyone involved have an opportunity to be good to one another and to support each other. We are a community and we need to be there for each other, get to know one another, and participate in different events together. It’s not just the Criminal Justice program, but all programs here at NWTC who come together. It doesn’t matter what department you work for because we are all here for our students and for all of our communities.” 6