What began as a single TCU Day of Service event evolved into an ongoing partnership between leadership students and a Fort Worth elementary school. Over the course of a year, they completed nearly 20 murals, delivering a long-lasting boost to the community.
“As someone studying higher education leadership, I think a lot about how to make service‑learning meaningful and reciprocal,” said Jacob Vanderford, a first‑year graduate student. “This project was such a clear example of that. It wasn’t just about volunteering. It was about co‑creating something beautiful and lasting for the Meadowbrook students and bridging the gap between campus and community.”
The project launched when Meadowbrook Elementary principal Alberto Alonso reached out to TCU’s Bryan Partika, coordinator of Leadership & Experiential Learning, about having students paint murals at the school. Partika saw it as a perfect match for TCU’s Day of Service.
“I love working with our local elementary schools, the teachers and principals because they truly value making our volunteers feel welcomed and appreciated — the projects are also a ton of fun,” Partika said.
Although the Day of Service lasts only a few hours each semester, Partika noted that many walls remained unpainted once it ended. That’s when LEAPS—Leaders Engaging & Assisting People through Service, a first‑year leadership program advised by Partika—stepped in with the initiative dubbed “Mural Mania.” Over 60 students volunteered to create murals with inspirational messages for Meadowbrook students.
Emily Healy, a junior majoring in business management and serving as LEAPS executive director, was moved by Alonso’s dedication. “I have worked with kids for as long as I can remember, and imagining their smiling faces is what made this project meaningful to me,” she said. “I saw the passion and care the principals had for their students, and I wanted to channel that energy into the work we were doing.”
Alonso shared how the murals have been welcomed with joy and gratitude, serving as a reminder of the collective goal to give every student the support they need to thrive. “They’ve sparked a sense of positive energy, emotional support and affirmation across our community,” he said. “Staff and students alike feel seen, valued and uplifted. It’s been an honor to witness.”
Partika emphasized how volunteerism broadens perspective and strengthens community ties. “Many times, we may chase accolades or praise, but giving our time and energy to aspects of our community that are larger than ourselves ultimately makes us better people and more responsible citizens in our community,” he said.
For more information about TCU’s service and volunteer initiatives, visit the TCU Volunteer Opportunities page or email b.partika@tcu.edu.
