It’s about us, and the greater meaning of what it means to be human. Our motto, Pro Humanitate (For Humanity), is a calling to use our knowledge, talents and compassion to better the lives of others. It can mean donating time and resources to our communities or simply a lifelong commitment to pursuing our best self. No matter your personal interpretation, it’s an opportunity to leave the world better than we found it.
Pro Humanitate in Action
Some of our most popular Pro Humanitate events are mentioned below. We encourage you to visit the Office of Civic and Community Engagement website for more information about how our campus community engages in social change.
Hit the Bricks
Hit the Bricks was started by Wake Forest University students in 2003 as a campus-wide philanthropy program to raise awareness and funds to find a cure for cancer. It serves as one of three philanthropic events held each year by Wake Forest students in support of the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund.
Wake ‘N Shake
The Wake ‘N Shake Dance Marathon at Wake Forest University is an annual 12-hour philanthropic event benefiting the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund. Cancer survivors and families and friends of cancer victims inspire dancers by sharing their testimonies throughout the event.
Project Pumpkin
Each year around 800 children from local schools and after-school agencies are invited to Hearn Plaza the Wednesday afternoon before Halloween to participate in a seasonal Halloween-themed festival.
DESK
DESK, which stands for Discovering Education through Student Knowledge, was founded in 2004 by two Wake Forest students who served as volunteer tutors and saw a need for home study space. For this annual spring painting event, the Office of Civic & Community Engagement connects local elementary school students and their families with a five-person Wake Forest team to design and paint about 90 new desks.
Pro Humanitate Events
Office of Civic and Community Engagement
The Office of Civic & Community Engagement is the hub of community-based activity at Wake Forest University. In the spirit of Pro Humanitate, we engage community partners, faculty, staff, and students to create meaningful social change.