Sidwell Friends School: A student-led initiative to create a campus museum of service

In a world where military and political achievements often take center stage, it’s crucial to shine a light on the many forms of civilian service that contribute deeply to our communities. In this inspiring video, students from Sidwell Friends School in Washington, DC share their journey with the National Museum and Center for Service (NMCFS) Their mission? To create exhibits that honor the remarkable acts of service performed by everyday individuals—be they doctors, teachers, or community advocates.

The students, reflecting on their diverse backgrounds and interests, provide valuable insights into how the project not only enriches their understanding of service but also empowers them to take an active role in their communities. By conducting interviews and designing interactive displays, they capture the essence of service in its many forms and highlight how it can spark change at all levels, inspiring their peers to explore their own paths in service.

The students created engaging exhibits that showcased the impactful stories of local alumni and community members who have made significant contributions through service. These exhibits included visual displays and narratives that highlighted various forms of service, from art and education to healthcare and advocacy, encouraging viewers to reflect on the diverse ways one can make a positive difference.

Learn from their journey on their project page, where they explain their process in a step by step toolkit, including sample interview questions.