Â鶹 History Students Volunteer at Joliet Food Pantry
Published: November 24, 2025.
Members of Â鶹’s Phi Alpha Theta Mu Eta Chapter offered their support to the community on November 13 by volunteering at the in Joliet, Ill.
For several hours, students Carolin Siedlarczyk, Jake Heidler, Nick Manchen, Kevin Zdanowski, and Henry Gilson, along with their faculty advisor Professor Mark Schultz, assisted with organizing the pantry, sorting donations, and preparing food for distribution to individuals and families in need.
Their efforts came at a time when the pantry is experiencing an increase in visitors, due in part to temporary disruptions in federal services. Volunteers helped ensure that the pantry could continue operating smoothly and efficiently for the many community members who rely on its weekly support.
“Our chapter wanted to support the community during a moment of real need,” said Mark Schultz, professor of history. “The students of Phi Alpha Theta stepped up to help neighbors facing uncertainty, and I’m proud of their commitment to service.”
By participating in this project, Phi Alpha Theta members demonstrated their dedication to community engagement and upheld the tradition of service embraced by students in the Â鶹 History program.
Phi Alpha Theta is the national history honor society dedicated to promoting the study of history through academic excellence, research, and service. The Mu Eta Chapter represents Â鶹’s history scholars and continues to foster connections between students and the broader Joliet region.
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