The Civic Scholars program in the Office of Civic and Community Engagement recognizes civic-minded seniors with deep connections to their communities on and off campus. Throughout their time at Wake Forest University, Civic Scholars complete a capstone project and fulfill program requirements across three key areas: academics, direct service, and leadership development.
Learn more about the 2026 cohort below, including their advice for first year students interested in civic and community engagement.
- Anisa Arrington
- Ava Balsinger
- Theo Berson
- Christopher Dietrich
- Avery Donaldson
- Samuel Feder
- Rania Hart
- Ava Jochim
- Roksanna Keyvan
- Exahalia (Zali) Lawrence
- Emma Lincks
- Sarah McCune
- Sydney Merriweather
- Chelsea A. Njei
- Mansi Pethkar
- Emma Peveri
- Foster Pierce
- Jenna Ryan
- Anna Shoffner
- Reagan Smith
- Caroline Song
- Couriyah Stegall
- James Watson
Anisa Arrington
As a psychology major with minors in bioethics and entrepreneurship, Arrington has connected her academic interests in leadership, human behavior, and organizational systems with a strong commitment to community engagement. Her work reflects a passion for building effective teams, strengthening communities, and creating spaces where people can thrive. Arrington has served as a scholar for Leadership and Character, student director of Campus Kitchen, co-editor-in-chief of The Howler Yearbook, and as a President’s Aide. Through her community-engaged work, she has partnered with organizations including Harvest Table Culinary Group, Azalea Terrace, Campus Garden, The Cobblestone Farmers Market, NC Faith Health, The Fresh Market, Hope to Thrive, Samaritan Ministries, The Shalom Project, and Lowes Foods. One moment that stands out most from her community engagement work was the final day of TurkeyPalooza, when, after days of long hours and exhaustion, she was able to step back and reflect on the impact of everything her team had accomplished. That full-circle moment affirmed the deeper meaning of sustained service and leadership. Her mentors encouraged her to think bigger, lead with intention, and recognize that meaningful impact comes through consistency and care. These experiences helped shape her academic and career interests in industrial organizational psychology by showing her how leadership, team dynamics, and organizational systems influence outcomes. After graduation, Arrington plans to attend graduate school for industrial organizational psychology.
"Start early and stay consistent, because the most meaningful impact comes from showing up over time rather than doing something once. Also, choose work that genuinely matters to you so that your commitment feels natural and sustainable."
Ava Balsinger
As a finance major with a minor in psychology, Balsinger has connected her academic interests in business and leadership with a strong commitment to service and community engagement. Her work reflects a passion for collaboration, impact, and giving back beyond the classroom. Balsinger has served as senior director of Hit the Bricks, vice president of recruitment and marketing for Kappa Delta, vice president of operations for Jam for Janey, and a teaching assistant for the School of Business. Through her community-engaged work, she has partnered with Bolton Elementary School through Heart Math Tutoring, Paisley Magnet School, and numerous local partners connected to Hit the Bricks. A defining moment in her experience came during the final silent lap of Hit the Bricks 2025, where she reflected on four years of leadership and impact. Standing alongside her team and witnessing the Wake Forest and Winston-Salem community come together reinforced the significance of their work and the difference they had made. With the support of mentors who guided her through decision-making and leadership challenges, Balsinger developed confidence in her ability to lead and collaborate effectively. After graduation, Balsinger will work at the Bank of New York in New York City, where she plans to continue applying the leadership and interpersonal skills she developed through her community engagement while remaining actively involved in service.
"I would say, get involved because you never know where it will lead you."
Theo Berson
As a communications major with minors in entrepreneurship and marketing communications, Berson has connected his academic interests in branding, strategy, and leadership with a strong commitment to community-driven work on campus. His experiences reflect a passion for creating meaningful impact through collaboration, innovation, and large-scale event leadership. Berson has served as executive director of Hit the Bricks, vice president of membership for Alpha Kappa Psi, and risk management chair for Alpha Epsilon Pi. Through his community-engaged work, he has partnered with the Office of Civic and Community Engagement, Wake Forest Athletics, and 18 Springs. The moment that stands out most from his community engagement journey was the closing ceremony of Hit the Bricks 2025, which marked the culmination of four years of dedication and leadership. Seeing the Wake Forest community gathered on the quad after the most successful year in the event’s history was a surreal and meaningful full-circle moment. Mentorship from Brad Shugoll played an important role in his growth, offering encouragement, support, and the collaborative partnership needed to bring ambitious ideas to life. These experiences reinforced Berson’s belief that learning extends far beyond the classroom and helped shape his desire to build a career rooted in strategic thinking and creative leadership. After graduation, he will join Fenway Sports Management in strategic marketing.
"Find something you're passionate about and work as hard as you can on it."
Christopher Dietrich
As a health & exercise science and chemistry major, Dietrich has dedicated himself to bettering public health in the Winston-Salem community. He has focused his time on serving others through his leadership activities that enable him to transform his classroom knowledge into effective public health work. Dietrich has been deeply involved in community engagement through programs such as AmeriCorps in the Office of Civic and Community Engagement. He has also served with the American Cancer Society CARES program, as a pre-orientation SPARC leader, and as a President’s Aide, taking on leadership roles that support civic engagement and student involvement. Through these experiences, he has partnered with organizations including Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Habitat for Humanity, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Feeding America’s network through Second Harvest, and local community organizations such as the YMCA and the Community Care Clinic. Dietrich finds the most meaningful part of his service is in the everyday interactions he has with patients and community members at the Community Care Clinic. Their reactions and appreciation continue to motivate him to keep showing up and supporting community health. He also credits mentors and advisors for shaping his service journey by connecting him with community partners and encouraging deeper involvement. Through these experiences, Dietrich says community engagement has made his time at Wake Forest University more meaningful, allowing him to apply classroom knowledge to actionable engagement in the community while living out the university’s Pro Humanitate motto. After graduation, he plans to attend graduate school in public health.
"Get involved. There is nothing more meaningful than to work and serve together with others to improve the lives of the community members."
Avery Donaldson
Donaldson is a health and exercise science major with a minor in neuroscience, connecting her academic interests in healthcare, aging, and human movement to reflect her passion and work towards addressing health disparities, intergenerational support, and building community connections. Donaldson has served as treasurer and co-founder of Medical Brigades, a Campus Kitchen shift leader, as well as on the executive team for DESK in event logistics and fundraising. She has also been involved with Kappa Beta Gamma, Deacon Doulas, and the IGROOVE Study. Through her community-engaged work, she has partnered with Hope 2 Thrive and The Intergenerational Center. During an experience at DESK 2026, Donaldson helping organize the backpack and supply giveaway from start to end. She saw how this impacted children so positively and it reinforced for her the value of community efforts. Her mentors, including Gary Miller, Dr. Christina Hugenschmidt, Dr. Christina Soriano, and Cazandra Rebollar, played a role in supporting her involvement in research and exposing her to new community engagement opportunities. She has been able to explore different areas of research and healthcare, from being a Deacon Doula to aging and movement research through IGROOVE, and food insecurity work through DESK and Campus Kitchen. Donaldson plans to further her education by attending medical school, continuing to build on the impactful experiences of her undergraduate career.
"I would encourage younger students to get involved as soon as possible! I would tell them to try out lots of different events and organizations to find what they may be passionate about. "
Samuel Feder
As a chemistry major with a concentration in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery and a minor in biology, Feder has connected his academic interests with a strong commitment to public health, patient advocacy, and community-based care. His work reflects a dedication to understanding both the scientific and human dimensions of healthcare. Feder has served as an AmeriCorps member, peer chemistry tutor, Club Tennis captain, fraternity president, and student advisor. He has also been involved with the Bierbach Medicinal Chemistry Research Lab, the American Cancer Society CARES program, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Wake N Shake committees. Through his community-engaged work, he has partnered with organizations including the Atrium Health Mobile Health Unit, Forsyth County Department of Public Health, and the SECU House. A defining aspect of Feder’s experience has been his work as a Cancer Patient Advocate with the American Cancer Society CARES program, where he supported patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. These interactions deepened his understanding of advocacy, compassion, and the role of caregivers in healthcare. Through mentorship from professionals in public health and medicine, he gained insight that extended beyond the classroom and reinforced his commitment to community-focused care. After graduation, Feder plans to attend medical school, where he hopes to continue integrating community engagement, research, and patient advocacy into his career in medicine.
"Find people and services you resonate with and jump in! Even if something is not exactly what you want to do professionally, you are still going to make an impact on others, and learn some valuable skills that will translate into your future."
Rania Hart
As a mathematical business major with a minor in statistics, Hart has connected her academic interests in data, analysis, and problem-solving with a strong commitment to community engagement. Her work reflects a passion for using analytical thinking to create meaningful impact and support others. Hart has served as administrative director of Campus Kitchen and as a team lead for a consulting project with HOPE of Winston-Salem. She has also been actively involved as a member and administrator of the Wake Forest Cheer team. Through her community-engaged work, she has partnered with organizations including Hope to Thrive, Samaritan Ministries, DEAC Clinic, the Shalom Project, Azalea Terrace, Downtown Health Plaza, NC Faith Health, and Forsyth Baptist partners. A defining moment in her experience came through her leadership role in Turkeypalooza, where she worked behind the scenes to organize, plan, and coordinate volunteers for one of Wake Forest’s largest service events. That experience deepened her appreciation for collaboration and community impact. With the support of mentors who guided her through leadership transitions and encouraged her to pursue new opportunities, Hart developed confidence in her ability to lead and problem-solve. After graduation, Hart will work as an analyst in Risk and Financial Advisory at Deloitte Consulting in New York City, where she plans to apply the problem-solving skills she developed through her community-engaged work.
"Try everything! And once you do, stick with what you enjoy most and are most passionate about."
Ava Jochim
As a double major in politics and international affairs and communications, Jochim has connected her academic interests with a strong commitment to civic engagement, leadership, and public service. Her work reflects a passion for making political systems more accessible and meaningful to the communities they serve. Jochim is the founder and president of Women in Politics and has held leadership roles as vice president of Pi Sigma Alpha and Kappa Delta Sorority, chair of the Student Government 2024 Election Committee, and a student leader in the Third Culture Kid Club. She has also served as a research assistant in the politics and international affairs department. Through her community-engaged work, Jochim has partnered with organizations including the Down Syndrome Association of Winston-Salem, Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina, Winston-Salem Girl Scout Troops, and campus voting initiatives. A defining moment in her experience came while leading Wake Forest’s 2024 Election Committee, where she recognized that barriers to civic participation often stem from lack of access to information rather than apathy. That realization reinforced her belief that making information accessible is central to meaningful civic engagement. Mentorship, particularly from Dr. Smelcer, played a pivotal role in shaping her academic and professional path, encouraging her to pursue rigorous, purposeful work and a future in law. After graduation, Jochim plans to return home to London to work before attending law school, where she hopes to build a career rooted in political engagement and impact.
"Show up with genuine enthusiasm and never stop absorbing everything around you, the conversations, the people, the problems being solved, because even before you have the skills or experience to contribute meaningfully, a positive attitude and a willingness to listen will open doors and teach you more than you expect."
Roksanna Keyvan
As an environmental and social justice interdisciplinary studies major with a minor in French studies, Keyvan has built an academic and community-engaged path centered on resilience, accessibility, and social innovation. Her work bridges disciplines to address complex global challenges through both creative and analytical approaches. Keyvan has held numerous leadership roles across campus, including serving as strategic director and executive member of Wakeville, digital innovation lead for Wake Forest Information Systems, and a delegate for the Reece Collection acquisitions committee. She has also contributed as a group fitness program lead and instructor, while remaining actively involved as a Stamps Leadership Merit Scholar, member of Omicron Delta Kappa, and Phi Beta Kappa inductee. Her broader involvement spans the Office of Sustainability, the Office of Civic and Community Engagement, the Old Gold & Black, Admissions Ambassadors, and DeacsDecide. Through her community-engaged work, Keyvan has partnered with organizations including Wine to Water, Mapping Prejudice in Forsyth County, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, UNCSA Spatial Justice Studio, LEAD Girls of NC, and the Girls Human Rights Hub. Rather than a single defining moment, her experience is marked by a pattern of impact, specifically moments when others shared that her involvement inspired them to take action themselves. One especially meaningful moment came when a student she had once guided as a tour guide shared that Keyvan’s engagement on campus influenced her decision to attend and continue giving back. Mentorship played a transformative role in her journey, with faculty and advisors encouraging her to explore across disciplines and pursue opportunities aligned with her passions. Through these relationships, she developed both the confidence and clarity to design her own interdisciplinary path. Her community-engaged work ultimately shaped her academic focus on risk, resilience, and accessibility, and reinforced her commitment to creating systemic change. After graduation, Keyvan will pursue an MPhil in Global Risk and Resilience at the University of Cambridge.
"At its core, service is not about what you gain, but about what you give. When you approach it with that mindset, it will open doors and opportunities you never expected."
Exahalia (Zali) Lawrence
As a sociology major with minors in schools, education, and society and creative writing, Lawrence has connected her academic interests in inequality, education, and justice with a strong commitment to advocacy and leadership. Her work reflects a deep investment in understanding how systems shape young people’s lives and opportunities. Lawrence has held leadership roles across campus, serving as president of the Student Leadership Council for the education department, social chair of Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, president of the Residence Hall Association, senator in the Student Government Association, and vice president of Advocating Reform for Correctional Clients. She has also been involved with the North Carolina Guardian ad Litem Program. One of the most meaningful moments in her community-engaged work came through her first Guardian ad Litem case, when she witnessed a child’s adoption be affirmed by a family who had shown unwavering love and commitment throughout the fostering process. That experience deepened her understanding of advocacy, care, and the life-changing impact of support systems. After graduation, Lawrence plans to join Teach For America’s Teacher Corps, continuing her commitment to educational equity, youth advocacy, and systemic change.
"One piece of advice I would offer is to never be afraid of being “the problem.” In one of my poems I wrote that I have been born to be the problem, and for me that means questioning systems, speaking honestly, and refusing to stay silent when something feels wrong. Civic engagement is not always comfortable, and it should not always be polite. Real change often begins with people who are willing to ask difficult questions and challenge what others accept as normal. My advice to younger students is to stay curious, stay courageous, and never underestimate the power of your voice."
Emma Lincks
As a health and exercise science major with a minor in chemistry, Lincks has connected her academic interests with a strong commitment to public health, service, and patient-centered care. Her work reflects a passion for preventive health and meaningful community engagement. Lincks has served as a Campus Kitchen shift leader, PHASE community outreach chair, and secretary and community outreach chair for Setting the Groove Tap Club. She has also been involved with AmeriCorps, research in the health and exercise science department, Alpha Phi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, AMWA, Woof Forest, Elemental Explorers, Wake N Shake, and Hit the Bricks. Through her community-engaged work, she has partnered with organizations including the Forsyth Humane Society, Trellis Supportive Care, Bookmarks, and the Forsyth County Department of Public Health. A defining moment in her experience came while helping paint a newly rebuilt home in a western North Carolina community impacted by Hurricane Helene. Working alongside fellow AmeriCorps members and witnessing the homeowner’s gratitude firsthand made the experience especially meaningful. With the guidance of mentors who modeled compassion and care in their work, Lincks developed a deeper understanding of service and its impact on individuals and communities. After graduation, Lincks plans to work as a medical assistant while applying to medical school, where she hopes to continue building on her passion for public health and patient care.
"Take advantage of platforms like GivePulse to find ways to get involved in Winston-Salem."
Sarah McCune
McCune is a health and exercise science major with minors in biology and neuroscience, combining her academic interests in healthcare, human biology, and neuroscience with her commitment to service in the Winston-Salem community. McCune served as president of Ambassadors in Admissions, shift leader in Campus Kitchen, and a Young Life leader at Reagan High School. She has also been involved in Kappa Delta and partnered with several local nonprofits, including Hope to Thrive, Cancer Services, Community Care Clinic, and Crisis Control Ministries through her service in AmeriCorps. During her time at the Community Care Clinic, McCune had a defining experience when she informed a new family that the clinic offered a variety of specialty services, including pediatrics, completely free of charge. Seeing the parents’ relief and joy as they realized their children could receive accessible, high-quality care reinforced her commitment to healthcare equity and service. Her mentors within the health and exercise science department played a big part in supporting her interests and providing ample opportunities to grow in the field. Through these experiences, McCune has developed a deeper understanding of community needs and the importance of bridging gaps in healthcare access. After graduation, McCune plans to attend physician assistant school, continuing her plan to serve underserved populations and working to improve access to care for all patients.
"I would recommend becoming involved in service as early as possible! Learn where your interests align and find a place where you can make an impact, and then remain there. Build relationships and be a consistent, reliable presence when you engage in community based work."
Sydney Merriweather
As a health and exercise science major with a minor in psychology, Merriweather has connected her academic interests in healthcare with a strong commitment to service and community impact. Her work reflects a passion for supporting others and improving access to care at the local level. Merriweather has served as policy and advocacy coordinator for Campus Kitchen, a Skipp Prosser Literacy Program intern, and sergeant at arms for the Pi Beta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Through her community-engaged work, she has partnered with organizations including the Shalom Project, LEAD Girls of NC, Samaritan Ministries, and Harvest Table Culinary Group. A defining moment in her community engagement experience was serving as a leader for Campus Kitchen’s Shalom Project delivery shift over the course of a semester. Through that role, she witnessed firsthand the impact of consistent service and built meaningful connections with both volunteers and community members. With the support of mentors who encouraged her to step outside of her comfort zone and grow as a leader, Merriweather strengthened her commitment to service and advocacy. After graduation, Merriweather plans to work in the Washington, D.C. area before applying to physical therapy school, where she hopes to pursue a career in allied healthcare and serve her community.
"Try and volunteer at any opportunity you can, and use those opportunities to decide where you want to get involved on campus and/or off campus."
Chelsea A. Njei
As a health and exercise science major with a minor in biology, Njei has connected her academic interests with a strong commitment to service, leadership, and community impact. Her work reflects a passion for supporting others and improving outcomes for underserved communities. Njei has held numerous leadership roles across campus, including serving as vice president of the Black Student Alliance, a resident advisor for first year students, director for DESK, a building manager for Campus Recreation, and a shift leader with Campus Kitchen. She also served as a Virtual Tutor in the Office of Civic and Community Engagement. One of the most meaningful moments of her experience came from watching a student she tutored grow in confidence in both math and reading. When the student’s parents shared that her scores had improved, it affirmed the real and lasting impact of her work. With the support of mentors who encouraged her and believed in her growth, Njei developed the confidence to lead and serve with purpose. After graduation, Njei plans to take a gap year before applying to physician assistant school, where she hopes to continue serving underserved communities and making a meaningful impact through healthcare.
"Get involved early and explore different opportunities until you find what resonates with you. If you want change, you have to be part of it."
Mansi Pethkar
As a psychology major with minors in chemistry and biology, Pethkar has connected her academic interests with a strong commitment to public health, service, and addressing healthcare disparities. Her work reflects a passion for advocacy and improving access to resources for underserved communities. Pethkar has served as treasurer for the American Red Cross Club and as a tutor for Wake Women Lead. She has also been involved as an AmeriCorps member, American Cancer Society CARES volunteer, and intern at the Epilepsy Alliance of North Carolina through the Summer Nonprofit Immersion Program in the Office of Civic and Community Engagement. Additionally, Pethkar served as a research volunteer at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in the department of neurology, where she researched mitigating anxiety and depression in epilepsy patients. A defining moment in her experience came through her AmeriCorps work at Cancer Services, where she developed a food assistance guide to help patients access local food pantries throughout the week. She also successfully pitched and received grant funding to provide non-perishable food to patients, further expanding the impact of her work. With the support of mentors who challenged her to think critically and navigate complex public health issues, Pethkar strengthened both her leadership and problem-solving skills. After graduation, Pethkar plans to work as a medical assistant before applying to medical school, where she hopes to continue addressing healthcare disparities and advocating for underserved populations.
"I would advise students to lead with what they are passionate about and to recognize that every act of community service, whether it's a single volunteer shift or a large-scale project, can make a meaningful impact on their community."
Emma Peveri
As a health and exercise science major with minors in biology and chemistry, Peveri has combined her academic interests with a strong commitment to service in healthcare settings. Her community-engaged work reflects a growing passion for equitable access to care and the power of preventative medicine. Peveri has been involved with the AmeriCorps program at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Mobile Health Clinic and the Community Care Clinic, she has gained hands-on experience working with underserved communities and deepening her understanding of patient care beyond the classroom. Some of the most impactful moments of her community engagement came through her work with the Mobile Health Clinic, where she witnessed how meaningful accessible healthcare can be for individuals and families. These experiences shaped both her academic interests in health disparities and preventative care and her long-term goal of becoming a physician. After graduation, Peveri plans to attend medical school and pursue a career in medicine centered on equitable access to healthcare.
"Don’t just show up to help, show up to listen and learn because that is where real impact happens."
Foster Pierce
Pierce is a biology and Spanish major with a minor in neuroscience connecting his academic interests in healthcare, human biology, and language to his greater commitment to service in the Winston-Salem community. Over the years, his passion for improving healthcare access and connecting to the underserved populations has allowed him to work on reducing barriers within the medical setting. On campus, Pierce has served as co-chair of the Student Conduct Advisors, director for the 2025 Hit the Bricks external relations committee, Club Tennis captain, and service team leader for Reformed University Fellowship. He has also been involved with Alpha Phi Omega, and the President’s Aide program. Through his community-engaged work, he has partnered with the Community Care Clinic and Una Bendición. The moment that redefined his experience was during his volunteer shift as a Spanish interpreter at a free health clinic, when a patient, upon learning that the care was free, smiled brightly and left incredibly thankful. Seeing how the organization has improved the lives of many in Winston-Salem, Pierce is incredibly proud of his contributions to this work. Mentorship from Brad Shugoll and Cazandra Rebollar helped guide and expand his leadership and community engagement. Reflecting on his experiences, he recognized a gap in his medical Spanish. Pierce took it upon himself to self-study and take medical Spanish and interpreting courses to take on a more active role as an interpreter. After graduation, Pierce will attend Vanderbilt School of Medicine, where he will continue developing his Spanish skills to better serve Spanish-speaking patients as a future doctor.
"Try to connect whatever you are studying in your major or other classes to community-based work. Seeing how you can impact other people's lives with what you learn in the classroom will make the educational experience at Wake Forest much more meaningful and purposeful."
Jenna Ryan
As a psychology major with a minor in entrepreneurship, Ryan has connected her academic interests in human behavior and communication with a passion for creativity, leadership, and community impact. Her work reflects a commitment to building meaningful connections through both service and storytelling. Ryan has served as senior director of Project Pumpkin and president of MeloDeacs A Cappella. She has also been involved with Chi Omega and the Deacon Springboard Program. Through her work with the Office of Civic and Community Engagement, she has contributed to one of Wake Forest’s most impactful philanthropic traditions. A defining moment in her community engagement experience came at the conclusion of Project Pumpkin her senior year, when she stepped back and witnessed the joy and connection created among families, students, and volunteers. That moment reinforced the tangible impact of her leadership and the importance of fostering community. With the support of mentors and advisers who encouraged her to persevere through challenges, Ryan developed the confidence to bring ideas to life and lead with purpose. After graduation, Ryan plans to return to New York City to pursue a career in the music industry, focusing on marketing, artist development, and creative strategy, while continuing to grow her high-protein dip brand, frae.
"It is never too late to get more involved in community engagement at Wake Forest University! Some of the most meaningful experiences can start at any point in your college journey. Lean on older students for advice and support, because their guidance can help you grow and make a greater impact."
Anna Shoffner
As an elementary education major with a minor in religious studies, Shoffner has connected her academic interests with a deep commitment to working with children and serving her community. Her experiences reflect a passion for education, mentorship, and creating meaningful learning opportunities for young people. Shoffner has served as president of the Kids Cooking Coalition for two years, a Deacs Like Me mentor, and a safety officer for Women’s Club Lacrosse. She has also been actively involved in Delta Zeta. Through her community-engaged work, she has partnered with organizations including Cook Literacy Model School, Anderson Academy, Crossnore Homes for Children, and the Cobblestone Farmers Market. A defining moment in her community engagement experience came during the final Kids Cooking celebration at Crossnore Homes for Children, where she watched students independently prepare a full meal using the skills they had developed over time. Seeing their growth and confidence firsthand was a powerful and rewarding culmination of her work. Shoffner credits Margaret Savoca, Brad Shugoll, and Anna Donze as mentors who guided and strengthened the impact of the Kids Cooking Coalition while developing her as a leader and educator. After graduation, Shoffner will move to Greenwich, Connecticut, to join the co-teaching program at Greenwich Country Day School, where she will continue her work in education and pursue a master’s degree in special education.
"My one piece of advice would be, when giving back don't be afraid to mess up or have things not go exactly as planned. You can always create a positive outcome in any facet of giving back simply by being able to be flexible and pivoting your plan."
Reagan Smith
As a molecular biology and Spanish for healthcare major, Smith has combined her scientific interest with a deep commitment to public health and community advocacy. Her academic and service work reflect her dedication to ensuring equitable healthcare access and supporting individuals navigating the complexities of medical systems. Smith's community engagement includes serving as an AmeriCorps member at Cancer Services, Inc., and working as a Spanish-English medical interpreter at the Shalom Project Medical Clinic. Through the Office of Civic and Community, she has also held student leadership roles within the AmeriCorps program and SPARC pre-orientation. She also has been recognized as a featured speaker for NC Campus Engagement's webinar series "Civically Engaged Student," and has served as an American Cancer Society CARES volunteer, partnering with many organizations including Wake Forest Atrium Baptist Health. A moment that Smith highlights as a part of her service journey is organizing and leading Survivor's Day at Cancer Services, an event that hosted more than 300 attendees. She noted that seeing survivors and families connect with resources and one another reinforced her commitment to sustained community advocacy. After graduation, Smith will work as a program assistant at Cancer Services, Inc. and as a bilingual community health worker at the Shalom Project Clinic, before attending medical school.
"My advice would be to stay consistent when you find a place or people you’re passionate about working with—keep showing up and look for new ways to get involved. What starts as a one-time volunteer shift can grow into semesters of meaningful work, lifelong connections, and experiences that shape your goals and who you are as a person."
Caroline Song
As a philosophy and Russian language major, Song has explored the intersection of ethics, medicine, and community engagement. Through her active involvement in AmeriCorps and Campus Kitchen, she has been able to connect her academic interests in bioethics and humanities while building meaningful connections through service across the Winston-Salem community. Song has worked with several local organizations, including the Community Care Clinic, Crisis Control Ministry, Cancer Services, Inc., Habitat for Humanity ReStore, the Forsyth Backpack Program, Latino Community Services, Cook Literacy Model School, and HOPE of Winston Salem. She also serves as a Campus Kitchen shift leader and works with students through Young Life at Forsyth Country Day School. A moment that stood out to Song was during a HOPE2Thrive Campus Kitchen shift, when several women she served prayed over her. She describes the moment as a blessing and is constantly reminded of their gratitude for the work she has done. She also credits Brad Shugoll with helping her navigate a traditional pre-medical service opportunity and reflect on her service experiences through legal and philosophical perspectives. Through her community engagement, Song says she developed a deeper connection to Winston-Salem and a stronger understanding of the community beyond campus. These experiences also strengthened her academic goals, inspiring her to pursue a medical ethics–focused honors thesis in philosophy. After graduation, Song will attend Harvard Law School.
"By serving others, you gain the opportunity to learn more about both yourself and humanity as a whole. To me, it is both Christianity and philosophy in practice."
Couriyah Stegall
As a health and exercise science major with minors in Spanish and chemistry, Stegall has connected her academic interests with a deep commitment to service, leadership, and healthcare equity. Her work reflects a passion for supporting others and addressing disparities within communities. Stegall has held numerous leadership roles across campus, including serving as a resident advisor, a volunteer for Deacon Doulas, an executive member for DESK and Project Pumpkin, and a President’s Aide. She served as director for Campus Kitchen and the Kids Cooking Coalition, as well as president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Through her community-engaged work, she has partnered with organizations including Samaritan Ministries, Hope to Thrive, Una Bendición, Old Town Elementary, Crossnore Homes for Children, Cook Literacy Model School, Azalea Terrace, The Fresh Market, Cobblestone Farmers Market, and Salem College. A defining aspect of Stegall’s experience has been her consistent engagement with Campus Kitchen community partners, where she witnessed firsthand the impact of service through meaningful relationships and everyday interactions. These experiences reinforced the importance of connection, care, and presence in community work. With the guidance of mentors who encouraged her to step outside of her comfort zone while maintaining balance, Stegall developed both as a leader and as an advocate. After graduation, Stegall plans to attend medical school, where she hopes to continue addressing healthcare inequities and supporting underserved communities.
"Actually, go out and get involved in your community instead of just talking about it. Take the time to connect with people, listen to their needs, and then act in a way that truly makes a difference."
James Watson
As a politics and international affairs major, Watson has connected his academic interests with a strong commitment to civic engagement, journalism, and public service. His work reflects a passion for informing communities and increasing participation in the democratic process. Watson has served as student director of Deacs Decide, city and state editor for The Old Gold & Black, and business manager for WAKE Radio. He has also been actively involved with the Office of Civic and Community Engagement. A defining moment in his experience came on Election Day 2024, when he saw the culmination of his efforts through both Deacs Decide and his work in student journalism. That moment reinforced the impact of civic engagement and the importance of accessible information in strengthening democratic participation. With the support of mentors like Deb Marke, who encouraged and advocated for him throughout his time at Wake Forest, Watson developed confidence in his leadership and voice in public discourse. After graduation, Watson hopes to work in North Carolina state government or politics, continuing his commitment to public service and civic engagement.
"Get involved in the community! Working in civic and community engagement spaces is not only really fulfilling, but helps you grow a lot professionally."