Partner Spotlight: Sarah French — Building Community Through Collaboration

For Sarah French, Assistant Director of the Whitewater Public Library, partnering with the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater's Community-Based Learning (CBL) program is a natural extension of the Whitewater Public Library's mission to connect people with lifelong learning, creativity, and one another. Sarah says that “we have the space and the stuff to do the things that you want. We have meeting rooms, study rooms, a maker space, and even yard games. We try to have something for everyone.” Serving community members from preschool through adulthood, the library offers inclusive programming for all ages, including Spanish-language programs through partnerships with local organizations. Creating opportunities for learning and connection is at the heart of everything they do.
Always looking for meaningful ways to engage with the community, Sarah saw Community-Based Learning as the perfect opportunity. "We're always looking for ways to partner and connect with the community," she says. "Partnering with CBL is a perfect relationship that benefits everyone." For example, art education students have led monthly evening workshops, introducing community members to a variety of artistic techniques and media while creating opportunities for creativity and connection.
Reflecting on her experience with Community-Based Learning, Sarah praises the professionalism and support she has received throughout the program. “Every person I’ve worked with has been great—from Jodie and the administration side of the program through the different professors I've partnered with,” she says. “Everything has always been very professional with great communication. It has been a seamless experience where I've always felt very well supported."
While each project has made a positive impact, one experience has remained especially meaningful. After graduating, one student returned to the library to get a library card and shared that she had discussed her Community-Based Learning project during a job interview. "She got the job," Sarah recalls. "It was so rewarding to hear." Moments like these highlight how Community-Based Learning benefits not only community organizations but also students as they prepare for their future careers.
Sarah encourages other organizations to explore Community-Based Learning opportunities and recommends attending the CBL Breakfast to connect with faculty and community partners. Sarah says, “It is an opportunity to meet people, create valuable connections, offer good networking, and offer endless possibilities. You realize everyone is facing the same things as we serve the same community.”
Looking back on her own college experience, Sarah believes opportunities like Community-Based Learning are invaluable. "When I was a student, I would have loved the opportunity to do something in the real world and see its impact." For Sarah, that's exactly what Community-Based Learning makes possible—bringing together students, educators, and community organizations to create meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact on everyone involved.