Frequently Asked Questions

1. How did service-learning begin?
   In 2003, Lee University announced that it had received a 4-million dollar gift from the Lazarus Foundation. This gift is being used to implement the service-learning program at Lee under the title of The Leonard Center.
    
2. Is service-learning a requirement?
   Yes, because Lee University highly values Christian service, the University does require students to participate in service-learning. President Paul Conn says, “That’s what institutions do when they hold a particular value to be deeply important – they require it of their students.”
    
3. Doesn't it defeat the purpose of service to require it?
   Short answer: no, we don't believe that it does. This is a legitimate question to ask, however. For a more thorough discussion of this issue it is recommended that you read the "Why Service-Learning?" section (pay special attention to Reason #3).
    
4. What is Deke Day?
   Deke is short hand for diakoneo, a Greek word found in the Bible meaning “to serve.” Deke Day will be your first introduction to service over the next four/five years of service with Lee University. You along with hundreds of freshmen students will load onto buses and vans bound for elderly care facilities and retirement communities. In each facility, students are able to interact with residents and in the process, come to better know their University.
    
5. How can I complete an individually arranged service project?
   For all individually arranged service projects, a completed project form (including contact information for the organization served) is required in order to receive credit. Please click here for a copy.
    
6. What is a reflection paper?
   For every 10 hours you complete outside of a service enhanced course, a two page reflection paper should be turned in with your project form to the Leonard Center. Click here for some questions to aid you in your reflections.
    
7. Is there a deadline for turning in my documentation for service learning?
   If you are in a service enhanced course, you will need to get your documentation in before the end of the semester.
   
   For individually arranged projects, once you have completed a total of 10 hours you may turn in your Volunteer Project Form along with a 2-page reflection paper. Credit may not appear on your CRA until the next semester, due to reporting time-frames.
   
   If you are a Graduating Senior, please meet with your Department Head and/or Advisor for details regarding deadlines for graduation clearance.
    
8. How much credit can I receive from one activity?
   For any one service project or organization, you can receive no greater than 20 hours of service credit per academic school year.
    
9. Does working with my club or organization give me credit?
   Yes.  Remember to turn in your project form to the Leonard Center, so you will receive credit for the hours served.
    
10. Can I get credit for helping my family or extended family with projects?
    No.  For questions regarding this, please come by the Leonard Center.
     
11. Can I get credit for traveling with my music ensemble or group?
    No, however, if your group is planning a service project during your trip, come by the Leonard Center to see about pre-approval.
     
12. If I do more than 10 hours of service, can that carry over?
    Yes, but for any one service project or organization, you can receive no greater than 20 hours of service credit per academic school year.
     
13. Can I get credit for cleaning the dorm?
    No. You will not receive credit for serving the Lee University campus.