WNMU Public Speaking Class Does Service Learning at Humane Society

Students in WNMU’s Dr. Benjamin Cline’s Public Speaking class — Erin Moss, Tara O’Brien, Zulema Hernandez, Paul Montoya and Luna Bueno — are pictured with donations they helped solicit as part of their service learning project at the High Desert Humane Society.

© Western New Mexico University

This Friday’s story of the week from The Mustang student newspaper is about one Western New Mexico University class’ service learning project at the High Desert Humane Society. Click here to read the full Eric Lowe, editor of The Mustang, on the paper’s website. Or read on for a summary.

Two of Dr. Benjamin Cline’s Public Speaking classes volunteered with the High Desert Humane Society this semester in a number of capacities. They worked with the shelter’s animals one-on-one, and they practiced their public speaking skills and put their marketing expertise to work.

Quiwaina Robinson and Zulema Hernandez both participated in the service-learning project, however each of their groups took a different approach.

Robinson with her group presented about the High Desert Humane Society. They detailed the services it offers pet owners and potential pet owners. They also encouraged community members to help walk, clean and care for the shelter’s dogs and cats.

Hernandez with her group used their presentation to solicit donations (blankets, toys and pet food). They also marketed the High Desert Humane Society on Twitter and Facebook, learning the struggles of marketing a non-profit organization.

Other groups helped by caring for the animals — cleaning, feeding and walking them.
When asked what they felt was the most difficult part of the project, both Robinson and Hernandez admitted they had to overcome a dislike for cats.

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