This legacy of social justice and activism dates back more than 170 years, and with you involved, we can keep it going strong. Here, you’re surrounded by a community that embraces you for who you are: a passionate and responsible citizen, concerned for the well-being of our world. At Grinnell, you’ll be inspired to always step forward and be a part of the solution.
Grinnell was founded by abolitionists, and that ethos has driven our college from the ever since. We’ve long been recognized as one of the top volunteer producers for the Peace Corps. And we spawned the Social Gospel movement, trained the architects of FDR’s New Deal, educated the inventor of the microchip, and graduated critics, comedians and world leaders who are shaping society.
In this same spirit, our Innovator for Social Justice Prize honors individuals who have demonstrated leadership in their fields and who have shown creativity, dedication, and efforts toward effecting positive social change.
In and out of the classroom, you’ll be challenged to consider complex issues and expand your awareness. Through these opportunities, you’ll develop the tools to recognize and combat injustice wherever you see it.
Grinnellians volunteer with over 80 different community partners throughout Central Iowa. Through the Service Learning Work-Study Program, you might work for local nonprofit organizations, taking pride in helping the communities that surround our campus. In the College’s annual SPARK Innovation Challenge, you can compete in teams with community partners for funding to address local issues. You can also participate in internships, short courses, and workshops with Grinnell Prize Winners, and lead alternative break service projects. And through the Liberal Arts in Prison Program, you have the opportunity to tutor inmates at a nearby correctional facility.
More examples of Grinnellians and our service:
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