Mercer University will host its inaugural Service Leadership Conference Jan. 30, beginning at 9:30 a.m., on the Macon campus. The event will feature presentations by undergraduate and medical students exhibiting their commitment to community engagement.
 
More than 20 unique projects, many of which were implemented through the School of Medicine’s Distinction in Service to the Community program, will be represented.
 
The DISC program seeks to address various health, educational and socioeconomic disparities in Macon, Savannah and Columbus, Mercer’s three medical school locations. Examples of these projects include teaching basic science at elementary schools, coaching young children about healthy snack choices, restructuring wait times at the health department and pushing physically disabled children across race finish lines.
 
“Because of their hard work and dedication, Mercer students are making their community a better place, developing valuable leadership skills and building relationships through their various volunteer projects,” said Jennifer Boryk-Ratner, coordinator of service learning and community engagement for the School of Medicine.
 
“Community members are invited to attend the Service Leadership Conference not only to learn about ongoing community partnerships with Mercer medical students, but also to learn how their organization or church group might become involved in a partnership.”