Students in Walla Walla College’s Introduction to Nursing began a class project not knowing it would become a lasting mission.
Early in the quarter Phetsile Dlamini, an African physician honored last year by the Association of Adventist Women, spoke about the Kingdom of Swaziland. One of the smallest countries on the continent, it has the world’s lowest life expectancy due to a high rate of HIV infection.
Moved by the presentation, the class took action. They formed three groups. One group sent books, in addition to meeting regularly for group prayers. Another group worked with World Vision to raise money for a project with long-term effects. The final group sent boxes of encouraging notes and supplies for children.
Although the quarter is over and grades have been handed out, all three groups are continuing to work for the people of Swaziland. “Even though what we’re doing seems small, it will provide hope and maybe change lives,” says Leah Davy, a sophomore nursing major.
“I am particularly impressed that the students took hold of this project so strongly. They made it a life-changing experience, rather than just an assignment to be completed by the end of the quarter,” says professor Trudy Klein.
If you would like to find out more, contact Trudy Klein, associate dean of nursing, at kleitr@wwc.edu or (509) 527-2462.
