GREENEVILLE — Participants in the Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science precollege programs at Tusculum University learned more about the value of community service during a recent work day on campus and in the community.
Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science students pose on the trail.
One group of students conducted additional work on the Tusculum Nature Trail, which sustained damage from Hurricane Helene. Tusculum students worked with faculty and staff during the second Nettie Fowler McCormick Service Day in October to reopen the trail with some clearing work. Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science participants continued the work.
Aaron Barnett, an Upward Bound Math and Science advisor, said students in these two programs cut items, reraked and widened trails and put benches back in place. He said they were enthusiastic about their work and made the trail even more usable by the community and the Tusculum family.
“A lot of our participants in the two programs have pride in this campus because they participate in the Summer Academy at Tusculum,” Barnett said. “Some of them, especially the ones that worked on this project, have come to the academy since they were freshmen. They want to see the campus do well.”
The trail runs between the Doak House Museum and the Paul E. Hayden Educational Wetland and is open to the community every day of the year during daylight hours.
The second group assisted at the C.A.R.E. Center in Greeneville, sorting donations for hurricane relief. Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science have partnered with that agency before, so the recent work was an extension of the relationship. Previously, the students have cleaned C.A.R.E. facility and cooked and served meals.
“It’s important for the students to participate in this work to develop them as good citizens,” said Erin Frizzell, director of Upward Bound. “Performing this work makes them well-rounded students who understand the value of community service as part of their lives.”
Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science students enjoy the tailgate at Tusculum and are joined by the university’s mascot, Zeke.
Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science students perform work at the C.A.R.E. Center.
Stacey McGill, director of Upward Bound Math and Science, said projects like these teach the students that they need to give back to the community.
“These students receive tremendous support from the community, so it is important they return the favor by helping others,” she said. “When everyone chips in to help, the quality of life and community spirit is so much higher. Learning that approach at an early stage in life will help foster an appreciation for one’s connection to the community.”
After the students completed their work at both places, they participated in a tailgate on campus and were able to attend a home football game. Barnett said Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science try to combine a scholastic or service project with a fun activity.
More information about Upward Bound is available at https://site.tusculum.edu/student-success/academic-affairs/first-gen/ub/. Additional details about Upward Bound Math and Science can be found at https://site.tusculum.edu/student-success/academic-affairs/first-gen/ubms/. People can access more information about the university at www.tusculum.edu.