A Missouri Western State University student has been chosen for Oxfam America’s class of CHANGE Leaders for the 2018-2019 school year. Andrea Gordon, sophomore theatre and cinema major from Kansas City, Mo., is one of only 30 students nationwide selected by the international anti-poverty program for its leadership and advocacy training program.
“We are excited to extend CHANGE Leader invitations to these incredible students,” said Nessa Stoltzfus Barge, volunteer and youth engagement manager at Oxfam. “Each of these students has demonstrated deep commitment and passion for Oxfam’s mission to end the injustice of poverty, and we are thrilled to be able connect with them and support their work to channel that passion into action.”
The yearlong program kicks off with a weeklong training in Boston this summer, where CHANGE Leaders get the chance to hear from Oxfam staff, CHANGE Alumni and one another, as well as participate in workshops on leadership and advocacy training. CHANGE Leaders then take these skills back to campus, where they bring Oxfam’s mission to life through teach-ins, panels, research projects, class curriculum, special events, campus clubs and more. Oxfam will support students with advice, materials and information throughout the year.
“It’s such an honor to be able to represent Missouri Western and every other university and college within the Midwest while in Boston,” Gordon said. “One thing that has always been big in my heart is service and commitment. I feel as if becoming an Oxfam for CHANGE leader will do nothing but strengthen and enhance the already acquired leadership skills that I have attained throughout the years. I can’t wait to represent my school in the best way!”
Gordon gave special thanks to Shana Meyer, Missouri Western’s vice president for student affairs, for encouraging her to apply for the program.
Founded in 2000, CHANGE has trained over 870 student leaders from more than 350 colleges and universities. Together, they learn how to transform their passion for the issues into meaningful action on campus and in their communities, joining a network of like-minded students around the country. Past CHANGE Leaders have gone on to work for members of Congress, start their own nonprofit organizations, and pursue social justice careers worldwide.
Oxfam is a global organization working to end the injustice of poverty. We help people build better futures for themselves, hold the powerful accountable, and save lives in disasters. Our mission is to tackle the root causes of poverty and create lasting solutions. For more information, visit www.oxfamamerica.org.
Missouri Western State University is a comprehensive regional university providing a blend of traditional liberal arts and professional degree programs. The university offers student-centered, high quality instruction that focuses on experience-based learning, community service, and state-of-the-art technology. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit www.missouriwestern.edu.