Keith Lanser

MA in Latin American Studies | 2012

Job : Manager of Service Learning & Civic Engagement, Mount St. Joseph University
Location : Cincinnati, OH

What were you involved in while at UNM?

I had a GA and TA position with the Spanish as a Second Language Program. I also volunteered with the Graduate Students Association. I did a field experience in Las Mesitas, Honduras, with an Albuquerque-based nonprofit called Teaching for a Better Tomorrow.

What’s a favorite memory or class from your time in the program?

My favorite memory of grad school was my field experience in Las Mesitas, Honduras, where I was able to work on an educational norms campaign with a group of local children.

What are you doing now and what have been some of your professional highlights?

I'm currently working as the Manager of Service Learning & Civic Engagement at Mount St. Joseph University. I have been on the board of Renaissance Covington for the past 6 years, where I also served as Board Secretary and Board Vice President. I will be terming out of this role in June of 2018. Also, I am currently the Board President of the English Language Learning Foundation.

How has your Latin American Studies degree informed your work?

My coursework in human rights, political science, and education from UNM has prepared me to work as a higher education professional focusing on service learning & civic engagement. It also prepared me for my role as Board President of the English Language Learning Foundation; we just reached a milestone of giving out over $100,000 to Greater Cincinnati EL students since 2006.

What advice do you have for current or prospective students?

Follow your passion, and lean into your strengths.