With a paint brush in hand and colleagues at her side, Grace Schleining realized she was immersed in Nebraska Law’s engagement mission — and the first-year student bubbled with excitement.
“Participating in this service-learning project showed me that our College of Law truly embodies the values it promotes,” Schleining said. “This has been an inspirational start to my first year and I cannot wait to see what lies ahead.”
Schleining was among more than 150 first-year University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Law students (plus faculty and mentors from second- and third-year classes) who took part in an Aug. 22 service-learning project at Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln’s updated home improvement discount store, Habitat ReStore. Working in two shifts, the Huskers successfully painted the store, helping staff get it ready for a grand re-opening on Aug. 27.
“The law students were phenomenal, and we could not ask for a more enthusiastic, better organized group of volunteers,” said Shay Homeyer, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln. “Their help was critical in completing the refresh of ReStore and opening back up to serve the Lincoln community.”
The service-learning project has become a traditional conclusion to the College of Law’s two-day orientation for first-year students. Richard Moberly, dean of law, said the project sets the tone for the academic year and introduces students to the college mission and values.
“An important part of being a lawyer is serving as a leader who is engaged with the community. The community service projects in our orientation help us send that message from day one,” Moberly said. “We also hope that by working together on a common goal, we can begin introducing new students to the vibrant College of Law community and culture of service.”
Grant Gubbels, a second-year student who is serving as a mentor for new students, said the orientation paid dividends throughout his first year in the college.
“I have a Gallup Strengths background coming from UNL’s College of Business, but the sessions helped me further define my strengths, which definitely helped me,” Gubbels said. “And the connections you make with fellow students and the professors are important, they make the transition to law school easier.”
Like Schleining, this was Gubbels’ first year to participate in the service-learning project after the one a year ago was canceled due to extreme heat. He felt the experience was even better than he had imagined.
“Nebraska Law graduates have a passion for using our skills to better our communities,” Gubbels said. “And, helping Habitat for Humanity, a group that supports the Lincoln community in so many ways, is the perfect way to showcase the service mindset that drives the mission of this college.”
Schleining, who is from Malcolm, said the college also does a tremendous job making its students feel welcomed.
“I’ve been extremely surprised that every time I’ve walked into the building — for the dean’s book club, admitted student day, or orientation — the faculty and staff knew my name,” Schleining said. “With 150 or so students in my class, that is so impressive to me. It’s a small thing, but it really makes you feel at ease and part of a community.”
