VOA Oregon – Multnomah Students and Parents Questions
Multnomah Student Questions
How will the arrival of Volunteers of America Oregon’s staff and clients impact student life on campus?
- VOA Oregon’s staff and clients will have designated areas on campus, minimizing impact on student life.
- The presence of VOA Oregon will create new opportunities for community engagement and learning.
- Students can expect a positive, mission-driven collaboration that aligns with the MCJU’s values of service and compassion.
Will there be any changes to the use of campus facilities, such as classrooms, libraries, or common areas, because of the move?
- With the exception of Memorial Hall and Ambassador Apartments, all other campus facilities, including classrooms, libraries, and common areas, will remain accessible to students as usual.
- VOA Oregon’s operations will be concentrated in specific areas, ensuring minimal overlap with student spaces.
- Any temporary changes in facility usage will be communicated well in advance, and efforts will be made to avoid disruption.
Will the partnership affect student housing or parking availability?
- Two of MCJU’s on-campus housing options will now be leased to VOA Oregon, including Memorial Hall and the Ambassador Apartments.
- Parking availability may see minor adjustments, but additional parking plans will be implemented if needed to accommodate both students and VOA Oregon staff.
- Clear guidance on any parking changes will be provided to students ahead of the move.
What opportunities will students have to engage with Volunteers of America Oregon through internships, volunteer roles, or academic partnerships?
- Students will have access to new internships and volunteer roles in areas such as social services, healthcare, and counseling.
- Academic partnerships may include research projects, fieldwork, and service-learning opportunities connected to VOA Oregon’s programs.
- These opportunities will allow students to gain practical experience while making a positive impact in the community.
How will the partnership with VOA Oregon enhance educational or extracurricular experiences at MCJU?
- The partnership will expand opportunities for hands-on learning in fields like social work, psychology, and business.
- Students will be able to engage in meaningful service activities, further aligning with Jessup University’s mission of faith and service.
- Extracurricular clubs or programs focused on community engagement may find additional collaboration and project opportunities with VOA Oregon.
What service opportunities will be available for students?
- Service opportunities will include volunteering with VOA Oregon’s programs, assisting with community outreach, and supporting vulnerable populations.
- Students can participate in workshops, mentorship programs, or advocacy efforts organized in partnership with VOA Oregon.
- Opportunities to directly contribute to the well-being of community members in need will be a key aspect of the collaboration.
Will there be any changes in security or campus access policies once VOA Oregon’s staff and clients are on campus?
- Campus security protocols will be updated to ensure the safety of both students and VOA Oregon participants.
- Access to certain areas of the campus may be modified, but any changes will be clearly communicated.
- Increased collaboration between campus security and VOA staff will help maintain a safe and secure environment for all.
Will VOA or its clients have access to Multnomah Campus services? If yes, which ones? Is it limited to adults only or minors as well?
Through the partnership agreement VOA Oregon is already utilizing campus catering for lunch and dinner service. Food service will continue when they move to the campus. Other services, such as access to the coffee shop, weight room/athletic facilities, etc. will be discussed over the coming months.
What if we need to use the housing options again in the future for students?
We do not anticipate needing the dorms in the foreseeable future. Our priority is to fill the available space in Aldrich, where we still have room to grow for students. This allows us to focus on building a strong partnership while making the most of our current housing capacity for students.
Multnomah Parent Questions
How will the presence of Volunteers of America Oregon’s program impact the overall campus environment and safety?
- VOA Oregon’s program participants will be housed in a designated area that is fenced, and separate from the main campus population.
- Campus security measures will be enhanced, and additional safeguards will be in place to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all.
- Staff from both VOA Oregon and MCJU will collaborate closely to ensure that campus safety protocols are followed rigorously.
Will the partnership bring any new opportunities for students in terms of internships, hands-on experience, or community service?
- The partnership will provide students with access to internships and hands-on experience in social services, counseling, and healthcare fields.
- Students will have new opportunities to participate in community service, gaining real-world skills while supporting vulnerable populations.
- The partnership encourages interdisciplinary learning and collaboration between students and professionals in the field.
What safeguards are in place to ensure that the move does not disrupt the academic experience of students?
- The transition has been carefully planned to ensure no disruption to campus operations or academic schedules.
- VOA Oregon’s program will be integrated in a way that maintains the integrity of the learning environment, with limited overlap between student areas and program facilities.
- Ongoing communication between university leadership and the VOA Oregon team will help address any concerns quickly.
How will the partnership contribute to the long-term development, sustainability, and reputation of MCJU?
- The partnership aligns with the university’s mission of community engagement and service, enhancing its reputation as a socially responsible institution.
- It will foster long-term relationships with community organizations and strengthen ties between the campus and the Portland area.
- The collaboration will open doors to new programs, research opportunities, and grants that support both educational and community-focused initiatives.
Will there be any changes in student services or campus operations due to the integration of VOA Oregon’s programs?
- No immediate changes are expected in student services or campus operations as a result of the partnership.
- The university will monitor the integration closely to ensure that all student services remain unaffected and continue to operate smoothly.
- Any changes or improvements to campus operations will be communicated transparently to students and staff well in advance.