UMO Students Participate in Two Key Initiatives in Harnett County
October 1, 2024
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
DUNN, NC – The University of Mount Olive (UMO) Community Health class recently completed two impactful initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to fostering community health and service-based learning.
The first initiative took place at the Dunn Urban Ministerial Association Food Bank, where UMO students made a meaningful contribution to the fight against food insecurity. During the event, students devoted their time to sorting, packing, and distributing essential food items while engaging with local residents to promote nutrition awareness and healthy eating habits. This hands-on approach enabled students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, emphasizing the importance of community health initiatives.
UMO Nursing Chair Nancy Mimm said, “UMO is dedicated to enhancing community health through service and education, empowering students to become proactive advocates for public health.”
In the second initiative, UMO students partnered with the Dunn Police Department’s Community Enhancement Team (CET) and patrol officers. The students accompanied officers on daily patrols throughout the Dunn community.
“This experience was invaluable for our students,” said Nursing Professor Nori New-Jackson. “It allows them to see firsthand how health and safety are interlinked, and it prepares them for future careers in public health and community service.”
UMO nursing student Jamesha Howell said, “The ride-along helped me to recognize how difficult it is to do this job and emphasized the role of patrol officers in community health. Their work extends beyond traditional law enforcement, including significant contributions to public health and safety through community engagement, collaboration, and proactive problem-solving.”
Student Gregory Boko said, “The CET program provides transparency throughout the community by engaging with the public and allowing people to ask questions. Hearing the voices of the community allows officers to be viewed in a positive light.”
Nursing Chair Nancy Mimm said, “These initiatives serve as stepping stones for students, equipping them with essential skills for their future public health and community service careers. By actively contributing to these programs, UMO students help forge stronger, healthier communities while learning valuable lessons about the interconnectedness of health and safety.”
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
UMO students in a Community Health class made a meaningful contribution to the fight against food insecurity at the Dunn Urban Ministerial Association Food Bank
UMO students partnered with the Dunn Police Department’s Community Enhancement Team (CET) and patrol officers by participating in patrols throughout the Dunn community to see firsthand how health and safety are interlinked.
