In keeping with our Jesuit identity, we work toward incorporating the values of St. Ignatius Loyola in all aspects of daily life.  Living up to this goal gives us a desire to be "men and women for and with others," which fosters a yearning not only to help those in need but also to be an agent for change.

In 2003, Clare Strockbine, a student worker in The Center for Service & Social Justice (previous called Collegiate Volunteers), wrote a proposal for the F.I.R.S.T. program.  With this in mind, The Center for Service & Social Justice and the Office of Student Engagement began sponsoring the program called F.I.R.S.T. - Freshmen Involved in Reflective Service Together.

Forty incoming freshmen will be given the opportunity to participate in five days of service in the Scranton community immediately preceding Fall Welcome. Types of service include working with elementary school children, nursing home residents, and participating in a painting project. In the evening, we will stay at the University's beautiful Retreat Center at Chapman Lake. A team of eight upperclassmen will lead F.I.R.S.T., with a staff chaperone director.  Meals and reflections are also included involving faculty and staff.

Incoming accepted Freshman are eligible to apply for the FIRST program after receiving the information packet from the Office of Admissions in May.  Students are accepted on a first come first serve basis and must send an email to the director expressing interest.  An application will then be sent to the student and returned to us, completed, along with a $100 non-refundable registration fee.  The fee covers housing, meals and transportation for the week.

For more information on the program, please contact Patricia Vaccaro, Director, at patricia.vaccaro@scranton.edu