From Classroom to Community: ANAT400 Students Bridge Science and Service

Community Service Students

In April, students from the ANAT400: Human Embryonic Development course stepped beyond the laboratory to showcase the profound impact of the University of Alberta’s Community Service-Learning (CSL) program. Led by Dr. Jennifer Hocking, the initiative pairs academic rigor with hands-on volunteerism at local organizations like the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society (EDSS) and Elves Special Needs Society.

“The ANAT400 CSL program is an unusual part of a science course, but it provides an unforgettable learning experience,” said Dr. Hocking. “I’m always blown away by their engagement and accomplishments.”

Innovating for Accessibility at Elves Special Needs Society

Five students turned their community placements into tangible resources for neurodivergent individuals:

Literary Adventure: Eva Amigo authored a "Choose Your Own Adventure" book designed for neurodivergent adolescents, navigating real-life decision-making with a focus on positive outcomes.

Infrastructure & Logistics: The team of Oshioke Omo-Ikirodah, Tanya Popova, Andrey Agaga-Akinyemi, and Andrea Zhao spearheaded a new accessible playground project. The group gained professional experience in sourcing, cost analysis, and grant writing—a skill critical to the scientific field.

Enhancing Support at the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society

Volunteers at EDSS focused on operational growth and community engagement:

Quality of Life: Priya Sharma developed a community needs survey to better align EDSS services with member interests, while Brooklyn Murphy overhauled the society’s digital resource compendium to streamline information for families.

Active Living & Creativity: Cheryl Lee hosted crafting sessions to foster joy and expression, while skating coach Abby Hill developed an adult skating program, demonstrating resilience in the face of logistical hurdles.

The Arts: Aidan Baytaluke, Amy Jacob, and Julia Kaup supported the EDSS musical theatre program, assisting with the upcoming production of The Great Centre Stage Heist.

One-on-One Impact: Tom McBride shifted the focus from the macro to the micro, sharing a moving account of his work supporting a single individual's personal growth and emphasizing the importance of person-centered care in healthcare.

A Vision for Empathy in Science

The Division of Anatomy celebrated the cohort’s ability to translate complex biological understanding into leadership and empathy. By working with the community rather than just studying it, these students have left a lasting mark on Edmonton’s social landscape.

"Congratulations to all of this year's students," the Division of Anatomy team shared. "Your work matters—and your communities are better for it."