We recognize that with great privilege comes great responsibility. Our Open Mind for Africa Program takes a look at concerning social justice issues in African countries, and tries to create a link between what we Penn students / affiliates are doing and how we can be of service to those in greater need.

This program exists in honor of Dr. Louise Shoemaker, Dean Emerita of the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Work. Dr. Shoemaker has spent a significant part of her life working on behalf of the people in Africa.  With an eye for systemic change, she guided the University of Ibadan in Nigeria as it established its social work degree program.  She also lived out her ideals by opening her home to two Sudanese refugees who became part of her family. 

As part of this program, the Christian Association organizes a series of educational dinners every year, called Eat Your Way Through Africa, that highlights a specific African country once a month. This semester, the dinner series will taste the cuisine, listen to the performing arts, and discuss contemporary issues of Gambia and Rwanda.

For upperclassmen, the Open Mind for Africa program also sponsors travel to Africa over the summer to participate in service.  Upon their return, they will be able to share their experiences with others during our Eat Your Way Through Africa dinners, and will be invited to take on other leadership as well.

 

(To make a donation, get involved, or learn more please contact Rob Gurnee, Executive Director at 215-746-6350 or rgurnee (at) pobox.upenn (dot) edu.)