May 22, 2015
Antioch University Deepens Ties with the Peace Corps
First national university to join Employer of National Service Program and first to partner on masters degree programs that serve Peace Corps volunteers
Peace Corps Director Carrie Hessler-Radelet and Antioch University Chancellor Felice Nudelman
Antioch University has deepened its commitment to supporting those who serve their country through new agreements with the Peace Corps to build and expand academic programming that recognizes the educational value of service. In addition, the university is the first national university to commit to the Employer of National Service (EONS) program, which encourages the hiring of Peace Corps and AmeriCorps alumni.
Antioch University Chancellor Felice Nudelman and Peace Corps Director Carrie Hessler-Radelet signed a formal agreement on Monday, May 18 to announce the partnership during a breakfast event on the Seattle campus with leaders from the Seattle community, business and nonprofit sectors.
“Antioch University is truly a national and international leader in service and innovation and this new partnership is further evidence of their commitment to our strong collaboration,” said Peace Corps Director Carrie Hessler-Radelet. “Antioch University students bring unique skills to Peace Corps service, while gaining hands-on experience that will give them a competitive edge upon graduation.”
The new partnership enables Antioch University’s Peace Corps Masters International degree programs to expand to all five Antioch campuses across the United States. The first Peace Corps PhD program was launched earlier this year at Antioch University’s New England campus and is based off the existing Master’s International program geared toward students already involved with Peace Corps. Students enrolled in these programs earn credit toward their graduate degrees through Peace Corps service.
“As a university that embraces service and integrates social, economic and environmental justice themes into all of our academic programs, expanding our offerings for present and future Peace Corps volunteers and becoming a Peace Corps Employer of National Service perfectly aligns with our mission and vision,” Nudelman said. “Blending Peace Corps service with graduate and doctoral degree studies and experiential learning opportunities prepares students to truly be effective global citizens empowered to make a difference in the lives of others.”
Across its five campuses, Antioch University has more than 80 faculty, staff or board members that have served in the Peace Corps. Employers of National Service builds a talent pipeline which connects AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with leading employers from the private, public and nonprofit sectors to create recruitment, hiring and advancement opportunities.
Antioch University’s doctoral and master’s programs offer 12 credits tuition-free for the service and research conducted while volunteering in the Peace Corps. Students also receive specialized training and gain access to an extensive network of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) with diverse areas of expertise to help them prepare for their next venture.
In addition, the Seattle campus also recognizes those who perform or value service through its new Master of Science in Management and Leadership program. Peace Corps volunteers are just one group that can enroll in this program, which is geared towards building service experience into the academic program as a way to open doors for future leadership roles.
About the Peace Corps
The Peace Corps sends the best and brightest Americans abroad on behalf of the United States to tackle the most pressing needs of people around the world. Volunteers work at the grassroots level to develop sustainable solutions that address challenges in education, health, economic development, agriculture, environment and youth development. Through their service, volunteers gain a unique cultural understanding and a life-long commitment to service that positions them to succeed in today’s global economy. Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961, nearly 220,000 Americans of all ages have served in 140 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.peacecorps.gov.
About Antioch University
With roots going back to 1852, Antioch University is a bold and enduring source of innovation in higher education serving adult students around the world and across the country, online and from its five campuses in four states in addition to its University-wide international and doctoral programs. The University lives by its mission every day helping students realize their potential and succeed in their educational goals through an innovative learning environment that is rigorous and responsive to their needs. Antioch University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1927.
