Emory's Center for Ethics is partnering with department store company Belk, Inc. to create and manage an internship program that promotes civic engagement.

The Center's D. Abbott Turner Program in Ethics and Servant Leadership (EASL) connects high-performing students with local community organizations. The multi-year partnership will fund five of Emory's eight-week internships annually with community organizations that include long-term Belk community partners.

"The Emory Servant Leadership program aligns with two of Belk's focus areas—supporting education and strengthening communities," says Dave Penrod, chair of the Belk, Inc. Southern Division based in Atlanta.

Students will not get academic credit; the program is instead designed to provide learning opportunities unavailable in the classroom. The eight-week summer internship, which begins in May and continues through the summer, will require 240 hours of service and includes classes on basic leadership and ethical skills and an opportunity to process their experience.

"Students will learn about different approaches to business and decision-making processes that shape nonprofit organizations," says EASL Director Edward Queen. "We hope the program forms a lasting bond between future leaders, the business community and local philanthropies."

Participating community organizations include the Junior League of Atlanta, the YWCA, Park Pride, Sagal Radio and Forever Family.

— From staff reports