In this episode of The Adjunct Files, John and Maggie sit down with the incomparable Jamie Wilson—FGCU alumna, faculty member, and faculty–community matchmaker in the Office of Service Learning & Civic Engagement. Jamie shares the history behind FGCU’s unique service‑learning requirement, why it remains central to the university’s identity, and how even the busiest adjuncts can weave meaningful community engagement into their courses.

From creative STEM partnerships to therapy‑dog reading programs, Jamie brings stories that remind us how service learning changes students, strengthens community connections, and helps faculty enrich their teaching without reinventing the wheel. A lively, inspiring conversation packed with practical ideas and big-hearted energy.

You can contact Jamie at jawilson@fgcu.edu and find resources online for faculty who are interested in service learning at: https://www.fgcu.edu/studentlife/servicelearning/facultyresources

Theme music composed, performed and produced by James Husni.

Adjunct Nation is a collaborative podcast under the auspices of The Lucas Center for Faculty Development at FGCU. You can learn more by clicking on this link:

https://www.fgcu.edu/lucascenter/

The Matchmaker of FGCU: Jamie Wilson on Connecting Classes to Community through Service Learning