The University did it again.
The University was ranked among the top 25 volunteer-producing schools in an annual report published by the Peace Corps.
The report separates colleges and universities across the nation into three categories: large schools with an undergraduate population of more than 15,000 students, medium-sized schools with populations between 5,001 and 15,000 students and small schools with populations fewer than 5,000 students.
The University, part of the large school category, was ranked 14th last year with 57 alumni involved with the Corps. The University of Wisconsin led the category with 123 alumni involved.
Robert Richardson, the University’s personal Peace Corps contact, said awareness makes University students prime candidates for positions in the Peace Corps.
“This campus and the student body here has a very out-looking perspective,” he said. “Students are very aware of the big picture and the activities occurring in the world outside of campus.”
Based out of the University Career Center, Richardson is responsible for spreading information about the organization and leading recruiting activities on campus. Richardson has been in Eugene for barely a year, but he said he has been continually impressed by the level of campus and community involvement.
Marc Schlossberg, assistant professor of planning, public policy and management at the University, said the program is a perfect opportunity for students. Schlossberg, who was a Peace Corps volunteer from 1995 to 1997, said the Corps is a great way for students to do three things: see the world, test knowledge and ideals learned in school and learn about themselves.
“When you’re away from home, out on your own in an entirely different country, it really gives you the opportunity and the chance to learn about yourself,” Schlossberg said. “I think it’s a wonderful and unique opportunity. Any student who is interested should look into the program.”
The Peace Corps was founded as a government organization in 1961 to “promote world peace and friendship.” Corps members who serve in the program for two years are paid. Approximately 7,000 corps members serve in 70 countries around the world.
Northwest public affairs specialist Jim Aguirre said he believes people in the Northwest particularly identify with the mission of the Peace Corps.
“The Northwest, in general, is Peace Corps country,” he said. “We have a tremendous response out here. People who live out here tend to be interested in community involvement and activism, things the Peace Corps was founded upon.”
Peace Corps recruiters will hold an information session and slide show about volunteer experiences in Africa today at 6 p.m. in 112 Esslinger.