Shaw University Students Join GrowLiberia Service-Learning Experience in West Africa

In March 2025, four Shaw University students joined peers from other historically Black colleges and universities and institutions across the U.S. for an Alternative Spring Break and Service-Learning Experience in Liberia, West Africa, as part of the GrowLiberia initiative.

The immersive program offered students a chance to engage in meaningful community service, cross-cultural exchange, and hands-on development work alongside Liberian residents. The goal: to nurture global awareness and a lifelong commitment to service.

Representing Shaw University’s third cohort were L’Asia Jackson, a senior majoring in exercise science; Isaiah Richardson, a senior mass communications major; T’Nasia Mason, a junior majoring in sociology with a concentration in criminal justice; and Wanda Fox, a graduate divinity student. They were joined by students from Methodist University, Kentucky State University, and Emerson College.

Throughout their time in Liberia, students took part in a variety of service activities, including constructing and renovating community buildings, teaching local schoolchildren, and collaborating with village leaders on sustainable agriculture projects. These experiences offered a deeper understanding of the challenges facing communities in West Africa and the innovative ways local leaders are addressing them.

“This was a transformative experience for our students,” said Morgan Ray, Shaw’s study abroad liaison. “They returned with new perspectives, a strong sense of purpose, and the motivation to continue serving both locally and globally.”

The trip was made possible in part by Experian, whose Be a Legacy Leaders (BALL4LIFE) program helps equip young leaders with real-world experience through international service learning. Their support underscores the importance of corporate partnerships in preparing students for global citizenship and leadership roles.

Program facilitation on the ground was led by the T&T Institute, run by Morehouse College alumnus Issac Taggart. The organization’s mission is to “nurture tomorrow’s change-makers” through short-term, high-impact service-learning projects focused on sustainable development.

Students described the trip as both educational and life-changing. Many cited the strong bonds formed, the skills gained, and a newfound passion for community-based work.

Shaw University looks forward to sending future cohorts to participate in GrowLiberia and continuing to build support through alumni and sponsors.

Students interested in participating in future Alternative Spring Break or GrowLiberia programs are encouraged to contact Study Abroad Liaison Morgan Ray at mray@shawu.edu for more information.