About the trip
Our trip to Williamson is an opportunity to see global issues relatively close to home. We’re going to connect to a community that in many respects is not too different from our existing experiences, but shows a side of both struggle and resilience that may be less familiar to many. The community of Williamson will hopefully both be inspiring and sobering, as we confront the real challenges that so many face, even in a country as advanced as ours.
Trip Leaders
Rudy Henkel
Dr. Rudy Henkel studies behavioral economics. He will be bringing expertise on the economic factors that are present in the community that we are traveling to.
Sean Hutchinson
Sean Hutchinson is the Associate Director for the Institute for Student Success. He has extensive experience developing and supporting service-learning programs with college students.
Trip Dates
March 6–13, 2027
(Saturday arrival through Saturday departure — 7 nights/8 days).
These dates should be considered tentative at this stage and may be subject to adjustment.
Sample Activities
- Arrival walking tour of Williamson
- Introduction to the Williamson Health & Wellness Center (WHWC) and its approach to community well-being
- Hike along the Hatfield and McCoy Trail
- Service work at the Williamson Community Garden
- Community Tuesday Night Track at Belfry High School
- Service with ABLE Families
- Tour of Matewan and visit to the Mining Museum
- Visit to an opioid treatment center
- Group bowling, bonfire, and nightly group discussions and reflections
