AmeriCorps Graduation Held at SU

SALISBURY, MD---Through SU’s ShoreCorps/PALS program, one of the oldest campus-based AmeriCorps programs, participants this year mentored 653 at-risk youth, tutored 2,274 local students and recruited 796 volunteers who contributed 8,619 hours of community service.

Those participants celebrated their service to the community with a graduation ceremony Saturday, August 23. Speakers included Sen. J. Lowell Stoltzfus and Dr. Ellen Zinner of the President’s Office. Both congratulated the graduates on their commitment to public service.

“On the Eastern Shore, AmeriCorps members serve in positions with public service non-profit groups and faith-based organizations; provide tutoring and mentoring, conflict resolution training, parent and family support, community and outreach; and recruit volunteers for community projects,” said Linda Beall, director of ShoreCorps/PALS.

Objectives include helping students improve performance and school attendance and improving relationships between youth, adolescents and their families, she said.

Salisbury area students graduating from the program include: Mary Cain, Carolyn Coleman, Pam Correa, Tasha Cunningham-Saunders, Sheila Edwards, Kelly Ibarra, Kelly King, Claudia Orr, Heather Shelton, Stacy Thomas and Michael Ward.

Fruitland, MD, area students include: Stephanie Ellis and Amy Mason.

Mardela Springs, MD, area students include: Lisa Guy and Christie Smith.

Ocean City, MD, area students include: Jennifer Heiger and Rose Trani.

Princess Anne, MD, area students include: Tia Green and Michelle Hearne.

Cambridge, MD, area students include: Susan Brighton and April Tramonte.

Other area students include: Pat Boykin of Snow Hill, MD; Megan Eichner of Delmar, MD; Kenneth Fisher of Pocomoke City, MD; Jessica Littleton of Berlin, MD; Shannon Staley of Queenstown, MD; and Jeannie Wilson of East New Market, MD.

Through their efforts, ShoreCorps/PALS participants receive living allowances up to $9,900, post-education awards up to $4,725 and course credits from SU. For more information on ShoreCorps/PALS call 410-548-5119 or visit the ShoreCorps/PALS Web site at www.salisbury.edu/community/americorps.