• Changemaking Opportunities at USD

    Click "Learn More" to discover opportunities under each category

    USD provides a range of possibilities to engage and expand your Changemaking practice. To help you explore, we divided these opportunities into six different pathways. We encourage you to try each one and find which best fits your interests, knowledge, and expertise.

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    Take a Changemaking Class

    - Take a course to engage in ongoing community projects

    - Take one of the 120+ changemaker courses offered

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    Engage in Advocacy & Activism

    - Join a club or organization on campus committed to activism

    - Join initiatives led by different departments on campus

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    Participate in Direct Service

    - Be part of weekly food distribution at the Bayside Community Center

    - Work with Pancakes: Serving Up Hope to serve the San Diego Unhoused community

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    Support through Philanthropy

    - Raise money for childhood cancer through USD Dance Marathon

    - Donate blood to the mobile blood bank on campus

    LEARN MORE

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    Engage in Policy & Governance

    - Join USD Votes Campaign and help the campus community participate in every election

    - Participate in Associated Student Government as a senator or serve in the executive team

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    Become a Social Entrepreneur

    - Participate in the Fowler Social Global Innovation Challenge

    - Join the Entrepreneurship and Net Impact Clubs at USD

  • Community Engaged Learning & Research

    Here's how you can connect your coursework and academic research to community-identified concerns to enrich your knowledge and inform action on social issues.

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    Course Based Community Engagement

    USD offers a number of courses that are intentionally co-created with the community. These courses are designed to create meaningful opportunities to connect with community partners and engage together on a number of social justice efforts. Whether it's improving education, enhancing economic development, or promoting health care, these courses will help you serve as an active participant for positive social change. Starting in the Spring 2023 semester, courses with a community engagement component will receive a "C" designation and should be easy to identify when you enroll.

                 

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    Changemaking Minor

    Changemaking at USD provides students with a range of knowledge, perspectives, methodologies and skills that will equip them well to make positive social change and to be engaged, active members of their communities.

     

    Students will discover that the most urgent challenges facing our communities today are ones that impact all of us and that we are all interconnected — with respect to challenges and to the ways we address them.

    Spring 2023 Featured Course Offerings

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    Sexualities SOCI 313

    Dr. Greg Prieto, TTH 10:45 am - 12:05 pm

     

    An analysis of the phenomenon of human sexuality from a sociological perspective. An understanding of the diversity of sexuality, development of sex roles, sexual orientation, historical and cross-cultural views of sexuality, and trends in sexual behavior and attitudes. Topics will include such issues as sexual identity, socialization, social change, and social movements.

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    Introduction to the Politics of Race and Ethnicity POLS 130

    Dr. Alan Segui, MWF 12:20 am - 1:15 pm

     

    What is the role of race and ethnicity in U.S. politics? Are we post-racial yet? The course surveys the impact of race and ethnicity on social, economic and political issues in the United States. We will examine the political experience and engagement of Native Americans, Black Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, and White Americans in both a historical and contemporary context. We will also investigate the potential for colorblindness as an approach to American politics.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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    Getting to Zero Waste GENG 494

    Dr. Caroline Baillie, W 2:30 pm - 5:20 pm

     

    This course will explore all elements of the global waste problem from recycling and reusing to reducing consumption and production and the practicalities of getting to zero waste. Case studies will be explored in different parts of the world and new approaches to the ecological paradigm of moving from waste as a problem to ‘waste as a resource.'

     

     

  • Community Organizing and Activism

    Here are some ways to get involved in mobilizing and educating individual or collective action to influence or persuade others.

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    There's More Podcast

    There's More collects diverse stories about how USD community members pursue a purpose-filled life by confronting humanity's urgent challenges. The series highlights USD's liberal arts tradition by exploring the human condition through the practice of changemaking.

    This podcast is supported through collaboration between the College of Arts & Sciences, Humanities Center, and Changemaker Hub.

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    Join Active Minds

    Active Minds is a national non-profit organization committed to reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues. Through various programs and the establishment of chapters at colleges across America, Active Minds empowers students to change the perception of mental health. Student-lead mental health education initiatives supported by Active Minds aim to increase awareness of mental health, provide resources regarding mental illness, and serve as liaison between students and the mental health community. By implementing educational and wellness activities, Active Minds at the University of San Diego strives to create an open conversation about mental health on campus and in society at large.

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    Go Beyond Borders

    The Mulvaney Center’s Border Immersion Program is an opportunity for students to dive deep into the vibrant culture and unique challenges of the Border Region with a core understanding of the interdependency that connects the U.S. and Mexico. Students will learn about grassroots issues and organizations advancing social justice on the border, foster community engagement, nourish their personal development and promote global dialogue.

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    Join Pee in Peace

    Pee in Peace, a continuing Social Change Corps team, is concerned with the forward propagation of inclusive social standards encompassing the value and right of each individual to feel safe while doing something that connects us all: using the restroom. Concerned primarily with the construction and promotion of gender inclusive restrooms on the USD campus, Pee in Peace aims to provide not only a Safe Space for gender diverse individuals, but also families, disabled persons and any other person who desires/requires a single-occupancy style restroom. So far there are seven inclusive bathrooms in various locations throughout campus. Pee in Peace recognizes USD as a contemporary Catholic institution and is committed to holding the university up to this standard.

    If you would like to learn more or get involved in this project please e-mail lgbtq@sandiego.edu.

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    Become a Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention (RSVP) Peer Educator

    RSVP Peer Educators are a group of undergraduate students committed to fostering a culture of care, consent, empathy, and respect at USD. Peer Educators accomplish this by providing trauma-informed and survivor-centered prevention education on healthy relationships, consent, and bystander intervention, as well as providing education on how to best support survivors and what resources are available to survivors at USD. Utilizing the CDC’s public health model of violence prevention, Peer Educators act as student organizers to help shift social norms that allow for violence to thrive, working with the broader USD community to implement culture shifts. Our work is rooted in anti-oppression and any person of any identity is welcome to apply.

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    Go on a University Ministry U.S/Mexico Border Immersion Trip

    This immersion experience will invite students to enter into solidarity with the people, culture, history, and other realities that exist in the San Diego region of the U.S./Mexico border. Throughout the week, we will explore the causes and complications of migration, the impact of U.S. immigration policies, and - ultimately - how we as people of faith can respond to these pressing issues.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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    Become a Rainbow Educator

    The Rainbow Educators (REs) are a group of students, staff, faculty, and alumni/ae who create and present workshops at the University of San Diego. In the past, workshops have been offered to residence halls, athletic teams, staff and faculty groups, Greek organizations, and student clubs. The workshops are interactive and dynamic; they include videos, role-plays, visualizations, Q&A, and personal stories.

  • Direct Service

    These are just a few examples of how you can work to address the immediate needs of individuals or a community, often involving contact with the people or places being served.

     

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    Help out at Rachel's Night Shelter

    Once a month, USD students and University Ministry staff prepare and share dinner with residents at Rachel’s Night Shelter, a women's homeless shelter in downtown San Diego. Sitting down for a meal with the women is an invitation into encounter, as we each learn more about each other and ourselves.

     

    Because the shelter is operating under strict COVID restrictions, we'll offer abbreviated visits this semester.

     

    Spring 2023 dates:

    February 21, 2023

    April 17, 2023

    May 2, 2023

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    Participate in Bayside Food Distribution

    Join the weekly food distribution program at Bayside Community Center! Their mission is to empower our diverse Linda Vista community to improve its quality of life through services, education and advocacy.
    Space is limited.
    Transportation provided.

     

    Spring 2023 dates:

    February 15, 2023

    March 1, 2023

    March 15, 2023

    April 12, 2023

    April 26, 2023

    May 10, 2023

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    Serve with Pancakes Serving Up Hope

    One Saturday every other week, we serve freshly made pancakes topped with our folks’ choices of butter, fruit and chocolate chips! We are aware that we cannot solve the issue of homelessness downtown but every week we build relationships and trust with the families and veterans in need. Our aim is to begin humanizing folks who have been marginalized and mistreated in the San Diego community. Pancakes ​SUH serves as a platform for people who are looking for volunteer opportunities and resource agencies that assist those who are in need.

     

    Spring 2023 dates (8:00am-1:00pm):

    February 11, 2023

    February 25, 2023

    March 11, 2023

    March 25, 2023

    April 8, 2023

    April 22, 2023

    May 6,2023

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    Go on a University Ministry Immersion Trip

    Focused on the issues of hunger, homelessness, affordable housing, access to healthcare, education, and the criminal justice system, the San Diego Immersion will allow you to explore the values of social justice, spirituality, solidarity, and simplicity through relationship building, service, education, and reflection in the San Diego community.

    Students will stay at a church downtown and spend time partnering with various social service agencies such as Catholic Charities, Father Joe's Villages, Cristo Rey High School, Nativity Prep Academy, the San Diego Public Defender’s office, and other close community partners.

     

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    Hold an ASG Leadership Position

    The Associated Student Government Leadership Team serves the University of San Diego undergraduates as official representatives, who promote opportunities for growth and expression, address student issues, and enrich a diverse, inclusive, and engaged community.

     

    ASG leaders work together to solve student issues, financially support several campus services, facilitate communication between student organizations, and serves as the official student voice to the administration.

    Changemaker designated clubs offer many opportunities for service

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    Become a BSRC P.E.E.R. Mentor

    The Promoting Excellence Education and Retention (P.E.E.R) Mentorship program is a one-semester program designed to guide first-year Black students during their transition into the University of San Diego (USD) community. In this program, incoming first-year students will be paired with Black students who have been a part of the USD community for at least one year. Through the mentorship program, first-year students should be able to have access to a supportive space with their mentor and to address any concerns regarding their transition and relationship to the university at large. This program will also encourage and promote community building among Black students at the university.

  • Philanthropy

    Try donating or using private funds or charitable contributions from individuals or institutions to contribute to the public good.

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    Join Dance Marathon

    Dance Marathon is a student-led organization that raises funds and awareness throughout the year for sick and injured kids treated at our local children's hospital. Students and organizations join our campus-wide movements by registering and creating fundraising pages, participating in events on campus, and asking friends and family members for our donations. Our year culminates at our annual Dance Marathon event, where we connect with and honor patient families, play games, enjoy entertainment, fundraise, and reveal our annual fundraising total - all in support of kids at our local children's hospital.

    Kids can’t wait so neither should you.

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    Donate to the USD Food Pantry and Torero Closet

    The USD Food Pantry and Torero Closet in Hahn University Center (UC) 116 includes: food, school supplies, hygiene supplies, laundry detergent, etc. Additionally, we have a refrigerator and freezer to offer students fresh produce, dairy, and additional protein options. The new space also allows for a Torero Closet, where donated professional clothing can be found.

     

    Donation Items can Include:

    • Canned foods (proteins, fruits, vegetables, soup, chili, etc.)

    • Rice, pasta, and sauce

    • Cereal and oatmeal

    • Granola bars and crackers

    • Peanut butter and jelly

    • Beverages such as juices, almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk

    • School supplies such as pencils, pens, and highlighters

    • Hygiene supplies such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, tampons, and shaving cream

    • Dental products such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, and floss

    • Laundry detergent pods and dryer sheets

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    Join FSL/Participate in FSL Philanthropy Events

    USD Fraternity & Sorority Life equips members to serve our campus, community, and world in ways that make a real impact and confront humanity's most urgent challenges. Members engage in Changemaking through their national philanthropies, local community partnerships, social justice advocacy, and investing their time, talents, and treasures as volunteers.

     

    Some notable FSL Philanthropy Events on Campus:

    • Alpha Chi Omega's Denim Day

    • Beta Theta Pi's Letters to Perkins Elementary

    • Delta Tau Delta's Delt Dodgeball

    • Gamma Phi Beta's Moonball

    • Kappa Delta's Shamrock and Roll

    • Lambda Chi Alpha's Watermelon Bash

    • Sigma Theta Psi's Carnation Donation

     

     

  • Policy and Governance

    These are some organizations that you can participate in to get involved with political processes, policymaking, and public governance.

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    Join ASG

    The Associated Student Government Leadership Team serves the University of San Diego undergraduates as official representatives, who promote opportunities for growth and expression, address student issues, and enrich a diverse, inclusive, and engaged community.

     

    The Associated Student Government Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches serve as the student government.

     

    As a whole, the ASG branches work together to solve student issues, financially support several campus services, facilitate communication between student organizations, and serves as the official student voice to the administration.

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    Sustainability Club

    The Sustainability Club is comprised of undergraduate students seeking to make USD a more sustainable campus. Sustainability Club is an innovative, eco-minded student voice that promotes an ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable campus. Their goal is to encourage sustainability as a way of life to reduce the University's collective impact. Sustainability Club is committed to reducing USD’s waste and water consumption to lower the University's carbon footprint through marketing campaigns, community service and outreach, and eco-events.

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    Join USD Votes

    USD Votes is a non-partisan, all-volunteer group of students, faculty, and staff, dedicated to encouraging every eligible member of the USD community to exercise their right to vote. Join us and check out our fun campus events during the year!

  • Social Entrepreneurship and Social Responsibility

    You can use ethical business or private sector approaches to create or expand market-oriented responses to social or environmental problems.

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    Fowler Global Social Innovation Challenge

    The Fowler GSIC inspires student entrepreneurs around the world to connect and create sustainable business solutions to global issues. Since 2011, we've connected more than 2,500 students from more than 25 countries around the world - including Australia, South Korea, Rwanda, Ireland, Mexico, and Peru - recognizing their outstanding social ventures based on positive impact and financial sustainability. To date, we've distributed more than $500,000 to seed the most innovative and promising global ventures. And this is just the beginning.

     

    Whether your passion lies in helping alleviate hunger or stopping environmental degradation, the Fowler GSIC invites you to engage with one or more of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals by developing an innovation that responds to an environmental or social challenge at the local or global level.

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    Entrepreneurship and Innovation Catalyzer

    The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Catalyzer at the University of San Diego's Knauss School of Business breeds innovation right here on campus, helping students turn bold ideas into booming startups and value-based enterprises. We give you the tools and resources to embrace your most creative ideas to build startups that create jobs and continually innovate — we’ll even challenge you to address global problems and improve lives with your venture ideas.

    When you take part in our classes and events, you will join a unique startup community here at USD, one that encourages you to take your destiny into your own hands and propels you to new heights. Plus, you will get to connect with an incredible startup ecosystem — in San Diego and beyond.

    Through various initiatives, The Catalyzer brings together a world of established entrepreneurs, academic thought leaders, startup innovators, brilliant venture capitalists, and bright-eyed students. Then we stand back and watch the sparks fly.

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    Entrepreneurship Club

    The University of San Diego Entrepreneurship Club is committed to bringing together students, alumni, faculty, and entrepreneurs with the hopes of building relationships and fostering an interactive learning environment to explore the world of entrepreneurship. Members of the club come from a variety of backgrounds, industries, and educations, which include undergraduate and graduate students from various schools within the University of San Diego.