ABSTRACT
In 2005, after almost 20 years of DePaul University (DPU) operating a winter quarter study abroad program in Mérida, Mexico, a fortuitous introduction to the Universidad Marista de Mérida (Marist University or UMM) transformed a traditional study abroad program into a two-quarter international service-learning (ISL) program. This chapter presents a case study that showcases an ISL program coordinated by two Catholic-inspired universities, UMM in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, and DPU in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The program between the universities, which has operated since 2005, utilizes the conceptual frameworks of asset-based community development and integral human development as the theoretical and practical philosophies for engagement, partnership, and reflection. Participatory reflective practices allowed DPU and UMM to critically reflect on each other’s roles, support the growth of the program, and incorporate input from students and community partners every year.
