In Stockton on Friday, Aug. 14, area Congressman Josh Harder (CA-09) joined students, faculty, parents, and University of the Pacific (UOP) leadership in a ceremony to induct the fifth cohort of the UOP College Corps. Every year, UOP welcomes dozens of students into the volunteer program to support community service in education, food insecurity, and environmental stewardship.

“Students in College Corps ensure that our neighbors in need always have a helping hand, and we owe them a debt of gratitude,” said Rep. Harder. “But this program does so much more by giving students a once-in-a-lifetime service opportunity and a pathway to a debt-free education. Can’t wait to see all that these students go on to accomplish.”

First launched in 2022, the College Corps program offers up to $10,000 in student financial assistance to participants that complete 450 hours of community service during an academic year. Volunteers help tutor young students, partner with local food assistance drives, and lead outreach programs to encourage clean air and water practices.

Harder was joined by UOP President Christopher Callahan and faculty, College Corps Director Dr. Dari Tran, local elected officials, community partners, and new members of the fifth cohort and their families at the induction ceremony.