Lasell Students Continue Global Partnership Through Shoulder to Shoulder Trip to Antigua

Lasell University students returned to Antigua for the annual cultural immersion and service-learning trip through the University’s Shoulder to Shoulder program.

This year’s trip marked the ninth year of the longstanding partnership. The 2026 cohort included 11 students, two of whom were returning to the island.

Prior to the trip, students spent the Fall Semester preparing for the global experience with curriculum development exercises. Through the Shoulder to Shoulder program, students gain hands-on classroom experience alongside academic coursework, reinforcing Lasell’s commitment to its connected learning philosophy.

The group visited four schools that Lasell has partnered with in previous years and expanded its reach by working in an additional school this year.

Professor of Education Elizabeth Hartman said going to Antigua each year has strengthened the bonds between Lasell and its partner schools.  

“Us going down year after year, it really fosters and creates relationships between us,” Hartman said, adding that the experience feels like, “going to see old friends.”  

The partnership’s impact has extended beyond the annual trip. In the fall, Lasell welcomed one of its Antiguan partner teachers to campus. During her visit, she observed classes while visiting with an alumna from her program.

“That just had such an impact,” Hartman said. “The students were so happy to see her.”

As the program approaches its 10th year, next year’s group looks forward to celebrating the important milestone and the lasting partnership it represents. Open to students of all majors, the Shoulder to Shoulder program continues to strengthen its reach through global engagement.