Need Service Hours? UCOSA is Here to Help

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Student Association (UCOSA) has launched a new volunteer initiative, UCOSA Service Hours, aimed at boosting student engagement and campus pride while creating opportunities for skill-building and community connections.

Old North on the University of Central Oklahoma campus. (VICTOR LOPEZ/THE VISTA)

President Alex Webb and Vice President Emma Martinez said the program is designed to involve students in maintaining campus spaces, provide social activities, and prepare students for life after graduation.

“The biggest thing is increasing student involvement and increasing student pride in UCO,” Webb said. “We want all UCO students to be passionate about their campus, and the best way to do so is by helping to maintain a clean environment which everyone can enjoy.”

The first project will focus on the university’s sand volleyball courts, which UCOSA leaders called “an essential part of student life.” Webb and Martinez said they plan to expand to other areas of campus and remain open to student input on future projects.

Martinez said the program is also meant to create a sense of belonging among students. “We want to provide social events so students can relax and make new connections after a long day,” she said. “These opportunities give students the chance to build their own skills, preparing them for life past UCO.”

UCOSA serves as UCO’s official student government, representing both undergraduate and graduate students. The organization works with university administration to address student concerns, manage student organizations, and improve the overall campus experience.

Earlier this year, Webb and Martinez outlined several priorities for their administration, including outreach to commuter students, highlighting campus resources such as the Central Pantry and the Center for Counseling and Well-Being, and building stronger ties between UCO and the Edmond community. One proposal under consideration is a healthcare partnership with a local church to provide services for students without insurance. Another idea is to secure discounts for students at businesses throughout Edmond.

“Our biggest goal with the administration is to be the liaison between the student body and UCO administration,” Martinez said. “There are a lot of issues on campus that people may not talk about because they don’t know who to reach out to.”

As UCOSA Service Hours begin, Webb and Martinez say they hope student participation will grow throughout the semester. “We hope to create a larger impact as the year progresses,” they said in a joint statement. “We are always open to suggestions from the community.”