University of the Pacific has been awarded a $4.4 million state grant to continue the university’s College Corps program for another three years, providing financial support to more than 100 students as they serve the community.

Pacific is one of only four private institutions in the state selected to participate, a powerful reflection of the university’s enduring commitment to community engagement and the development of service-learning programs that enrich student learning while making a meaningful difference across the region.

Public service is one of Pacific’s foundational principles, earning the university national recognition from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching for exceptional engagement with communities across Northern California.

In partnership with California Volunteers, Office of the Governor, Pacific has administered the #CaliforniansForAll College Corps program since its inception in fall of 2022.

The program empowers Pacific students to volunteer for organizations focused on K-12 education, climate change and food insecurity, while earning academic credit and receiving up to $10,000 in exchange for completing 450 hours of community service during the academic year.

“It’s wonderful that we can continue to provide our students the opportunity to serve our community and to acquire and practice real-world work experience,” said College of the Pacific Dean Lee Skinner. “Our College Corps students not only contribute thousands of hours of service; they also create innovative projects for their community host partners to make meaningful and lasting improvements at their service sites. These powerful experiences are transformational for our students and our community partners.”

College Corps fellow Domonick Romo '27 has been with the program for three years, volunteering at St. Mary’s Dining Room, the Edible Schoolyard and most recently, the City of Stockton.

“Being on the ground, giving out food and sorting through donations really opened my eyes, and broadened my horizons to the different ways people live their lives. That’s something I'm eternally grateful for,” he said. “It brings me fulfillment to be empowered as a college student to do stuff that helps people.”

College Corps currently has 105 fellows. Induction for the 2026-27 cohort is slated for Aug. 14.

“I am excited that California Volunteers Office of the Governor has selected Pacific for an additional 3-year-round of funding for Pacific fellows," said Francine Redada, director of the College Corps program. “We are honored to continue President Callahan's strategic plan to build and sustain community service for Pacific students to local school districts and organizations that focus on K-12 education, climate action, food insecurity and community health.”

Learn more about the College Corps program.