(ACE) Ambassadors Trip

Level: Graduate

The Appalachian Community Engagement (ACE) Ambassador Trip experiential learning course is a faculty-led, service-learning experience in rural West Virginia designed for prelicensure, masters, and doctoral nursing students who have previously participated in an ACE Trip and are returning to serve as leaders and ambassadors. Students will be selected through a competitive application process based on their prior engagement, leadership potential, and commitment to advancing health equity in Appalachia. As ACE Ambassadors, students build upon their initial experience to deepen their understanding of rural social determinants of health, health equity, and cultural humility. In addition to engaging in professional formation, personal service, and experiential exposure to Appalachian culture, Ambassadors will mentor peers, collaborate closely with faculty and community partners, and model leadership in the context of community- based health initiatives. This experience exemplifies Georgetown University Berkley School of Nursing’s Jesuit values of cura communitas, contemplation in action, people for others, diversity and belonging, care of the common home, and principled leadership. All activities will be co-developed with community partners and tailored to local priorities. ACE Ambassadors will engage directly with community members, healthcare providers, and local leaders while also helping guide new participants. Experiential learning opportunities will foster: (1) immersion in Appalachian culture, (2) advanced understanding of systemic and institutional barriers to care and wellness support, (3) exploration of the impact of social determinants of health on individual and community wellness, (4) development and practice of mentorship and leadership skills, and (5) continued advancement of professional formation. Sample activities may include health assessments and screenings, health promotion and wellness initiatives, community health education, and facilitation of professional development for local healthcare providers. Relevant program topics include health equity in community and public health contexts, the promotion of wellness, and the advancement of rural health initiatives. All practice- related activities will be commensurate with the student’s educational level and conducted with direct faculty oversight. To foster contemplation in action, students will participate in faculty-led reflections that examine the intersections of culture, community, health, leadership, service, and faith.