Eight Valparaiso University students concluded their participation in the 2026 CAPS (Calling and Purpose in Society) Fellows program this summer, engaging in purpose-driven internships with nonprofit organizations across Northwest Indiana, Chicago, and other locations. Now in its 13th year, the CAPS Fellows program is facilitated by the University’s Institute for Leadership and Service, providing students with opportunities for service, reflection, and exploration of their post-college career paths.
The program is designed to connect students with real-world experiences within the nonprofit sector. Kat Peters, associate director with the Institute for Leadership and Service, stated that CAPS provides a chance to "practice this in the real world." Fellows gain insight into how nonprofit organizations operate and contribute to social challenges, fostering teamwork and allowing them to refine their individual skills and passions. This practical exposure helps students visualize potential career paths and understand the operational aspects of making positive change.
Beyond the summer internships, CAPS Fellows are required to complete both individual and group reflections, and to document their experiences on the CAPS Fellows Blog. These components are integral to the program’s aim of supporting both personal growth and professional development among participants. The focus on reflection encourages students to consider the broader implications of their work and its connection to their future aspirations.
Tyrell Frieson, a 2028 Social Work major and Christ College Scholar, completed his CAPS Fellowship with the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago. He noted that the program’s embedded reflection assignments encouraged him to intentionally consider his learning, personal growth, and how his internship experience aligned with his future goals. Frieson indicated that this reflective practice significantly contributed to his confidence in pursuing higher education.
Grace Vaughn, a 2028 Health Science major, interned with Camp Lakeside, an all-abilities summer camp for children. Vaughn reported that her experience at Camp Lakeside helped her develop patience, strengthen her communication skills, and adapt to the diverse needs of others. She recommended the CAPS program to other students, highlighting its capacity to challenge individuals to reflect on their identity and the impact they have on others. Vaughn stressed the importance of consciously considering one's attitude and actions and their effects, a skill she learned through CAPS that she finds valuable in both personal and professional contexts.
The 2026 CAPS Fellows and their respective organizations included: * Tyrell Frieson, a 2028 Social Work major and Christ College Scholar, with the American Red Cross. * Angel Johnson, a 2027 Political Science major, with By The Hand Club for Kids. * Sofia Gomez, a 2028 Psychology major, with Compass International Family Center. * Matthew Landrum, a 2027 student majoring in Economics, Mathematics, and Statistics, with Compass International Family Center. * Aria Davis, a 2028 Business Analytics major, with Shirley Heinze Land Trust. * Grace Vaughn, a 2028 Health Science major, with Camp Lakeside. * Isabelle Byrt, a 2028 Biology major and Christ College Scholar, with Save The Dunes. * Armelle S. Ndemanou Dongmo, a 2027 Nursing major, with Jacob’s Ladder Pediatric Rehabilitation. * Nickie Smar, a 2028 student majoring in Environmental Science and Geography and a Christ College Scholar, with The Grünewald Guild.
Students interested in becoming CAPS Fellows or engaging with the Institute for Leadership and Service's broader offerings, which include reflections, speaker series, and various service projects and trips, can find more information through the university.
