Kerry McCrossen of Smithtown Spends First College Days Volunteering in Providence

2012 Sep 5

Kerry McCrossen, a resident of Smithtown, NY and a member of the class of 2016 at Providence College, kicked off her college career by recently participating in the College's first FaithWorks service immersion program from August 25 to August 29.

McCrossen was among 26 PC freshmen who spent their first college days volunteering at various service sites within the Diocese of Providence, including Emmanuel House, a day shelter for the homeless; the St. Martin de Porres Center, a senior service center; and the diocese's Office of Life and Family, as well as Immigration and Refugee Services. Students also toured facilities at the Rhode Island Department of Corrections to learn more about the chaplaincy services that are provided.

FaithWorks aims to increase service opportunities among incoming freshmen class members and to increase the number of faith formation programs.

Campus ministers Richard Lumley and Sarah Attwood supervised the service immersion program, along with seven PC student coordinators.

"As students learn more about the relationship between the Catholic Church and the City of Providence, the program allows them to establish relationships of service and solidarity with Catholic agencies, student leaders, and with one another," Lumley said.

Providence College is the only college or university in the United States administered by the Dominican Friars. The Catholic, liberal arts college has an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 3,900 students and offers degrees in 49 academic majors. Since 1997, Providence College has consistently been ranked among the five regional universities in the north according to U.S. News' America's Best Colleges.