U. surpasses goal, 23 students join AmeriCorps

Moravian Academy '93 Allentown, Pa. Although seven of the 15 slots had yet to be filled one week prior to the February 24 deadline, applications poured in during the final week. The University was given the greatest number of slots to fill out of the 32 participating institutions in Pennsylvania, according to Frank Newhams, director of Pennsylvania Service Scholars. Students participating in the AmeriCorps program work on a service project for a total of 900 hours in exchange for financial support from the government. Penn Program for Public Service Associate Director Amy Cohen said the service project involves a seven- to 10-hour-a-week commitment for five semesters, as well as working for a summer. Newhams said students receive $2,363 from the National Service Trust upon completion of their service, and then receive a matching grant from the University. The money is then used to help the students defray the costs of their education. In addition, Newhams said, students receive a living stipend slightly above minimum wage. AmeriCorps was established in the summer of 1994 by the National Service Trust Act, which formed the Corporation for National and Community Service. The corporation administers funds for all AmeriCorps programs. AmeriCorps has come under attack recently as the Republican majority in both houses of Congress pushes to cut federal spending in order to reduce the federal deficit. Cohen, who coordinates AmeriCorps activities for the University, explained the unique nature of Pennsylvania Service Scholars. "AmeriCorps generally is not for students," she said. "The service is the only statewide higher education service corps in the country." Ira Harkavy, director of the Penn Program for Public Service, was enthusiastic about the students who were accepted as scholars. "I understand they've chosen absolutely outstanding undergraduates," he said. "I'm enormously impressed with their abilities, their interest and their education." Wharton sophomore John Seeg and College sophomore Abby Close -- two of the students who were accepted into the program in the spring semester -- became involved in the West Philadelphia Improvement Corps last September, teaching students at Shaw Middle School. They are co-coordinators of the school's Environmental Education Program, which Seeg said involves approximately 10 University students. Close said she saw joining AmeriCorps as a logical step because she was already fulfilling the service requirements, and receiving financial aid for the work she does was an obvious incentive. Seeg said he takes pride in being part of a nationwide service program. "It's very inspiring and motivating to be part of this national movement in volunteerism," he said.

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