MCC Human Services awarded educational partnership award by AIFS
OMAHA, Nebraska (Dec. 1, 2025) — The Metropolitan Community College (MCC) Community and Human Services department received an Educational Partnership Award from African Immigrant Family Services (AIFS) at its 2025 Success Celebration last week. The event celebrated AIFS’ achievements from the past year and featured African dancing, drumming and an awards celebration.
As the last step before earning their general human services associate degree, MCC Community and Human Services students have the opportunity to complete their practicum at AIFS. The organization focuses on helping individuals transition to life in the United States from French-speaking African countries. AIFS offers a broad range of youth development programs; community support resources; refugee and immigrant health screenings; mental health services; and language- and culture-based education and services.
Jane Franklin, dean of MCC Community and Human Services, said the partnership with AIFS has been valuable for MCC students. In addition to Franklin, Community and Human Services faculty members Michelle Miller, Sara Miller and Chandra Petersen received the Educational Partnership Award on behalf of MCC at the event.
“The experience our students gain from working at AIFS is so impactful for developing career-readiness skills and real-world learning experiences that are vital during their education,” Franklin said. “In addition to applying what they are learning in the classroom during their practicum, they are developing professional communication skills, ethical practices and cultural competence in serving AIFS families.”
In opening remarks at the annual celebration, Omaha Mayor John Ewing said AIFS plays an important role in making Omaha a more inclusive community. AIFS serves individuals from more than 20 African nations through services tailored to the unique needs of African families through advocacy, education and outreach programs, all while retaining their rich culture.
“It is an honor to be recognized by AIFS and for our students to be involved in its important work,” Franklin said.
Visit mccneb.edu/Programs/Human-Services for more information about MCC Community and Human Services programs. Go to aifs-usa.org to learn about AIFS programs and services.